DETECTIVES are investigating a “disturbing” sexual assault which took place close to a popular pub.

The attack occurred at about 6am on Sunday in an alleyway running from Kingsway to Empire Road in Dovercourt.

A woman had called the police stating she had been sexually assaulted close to Wetherspoons pub The Bottle Kiln.

She is now receiving support from specialist officers, Essex Police said.

Gazette: Sex attack - the incident took place in an alleyway between Kingsway and Empire RoadSex attack - the incident took place in an alleyway between Kingsway and Empire Road (Image: Google)

A cordon remained in place at the alleyway throughout Sunday as detectives probed the scene and carried out inquiries.

An Essex Police spokesman said: “We are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed anything in the area this morning or have any further information, CCTV or dashcam footage to contact us.”

Harwich and Kingsway ward councillor Ivan Henderson said he hopes the victim and her family continue to be supported.

“This is really disturbing and concerning. My thoughts are with the victim and her family,” said the councillor.

Gazette: Concerned - Harwich and Kingsway ward councillor Ivan HendersonConcerned - Harwich and Kingsway ward councillor Ivan Henderson (Image: Newsquest)

“I hope they are doing OK and getting the right support they need at this time. It is just terrible to hear about this.”

The latest available figures from Essex Police show violence and sexual offences were the most commonly reported crimes in the force’s Harwich and Manningtree boundary in June.

In total, 136 reports were made, accounting for 43 per cent of the total crimes alleged that month.

Seven of these were made in the surrounding area, with five in Cliff Road and two in Hordle Street.

Mr Henderson said: “It is shocking but for me, it is very rare you hear about this kind of crime within our area as a whole.

“When you do hear about it, however, it is really disturbing.

“I hope anyone with any information about this incident can come forward and help the police investigation.”

Anyone with information should notify the police by dialling 101 or an anonymous report can be made by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Please quote incident 255 of 6 August when providing any information to make sure it gets to the right person as quickly as possible.