Three men are helping detectives with their enquiries after a serious sexual assault was reported in Colchester.

The victim, a man aged in his 20s, was reportedly assaulted shortly after 11.50pm on Saturday, in a lane off Head Street.

Essex Police confirmed he continues to be safeguarded by specialist officers while the investigation continues.

A spokesman said: "We can now confirm three men are helping us with our enquiries.

"We are not looking for anyone else in connection with this investigation.

"No arrests have been made."

Detective Chief Inspector Scott Egerton, of the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, said: “This investigation has continued at pace since the report was made to us on Saturday evening.

“As a result of the tireless work of the investigation team, we have been able to identify three men.

"Those men are now helping us with our enquires as we seek to establish the events which led up to the incident on Saturday night.

“I would also reiterate; our investigations thus far suggest that there is no wider threat to the public in Colchester.”

Read more: Police appeal for witnesses after sexual assault on man

Chief Inspector Rob Huddleston, Colchester district commander, said: “This incident has naturally caused concern in the community and I can assure you we have a team of highly trained and very experienced detectives continuing to run this investigation at pace.

“I know they are leaving no stone unturned as they seek to establish the circumstances surrounding this incident. At this stage, they are not looking to speak to anyone else as part of the investigation.

“I would also reiterate that although many people will naturally be concerned as a result of this incident, the investigation so far suggests there is no wider threat to our community.”