A 25-YEAR-OLD man from Barrow has been arrested on suspicion of raping a woman in the early hours of this morning.

Police have confirmed that a 21-year-old woman reported that she had been raped between 3.30am and 4am near the Dock Museum, in Barrow.

Crime scene investigators and uniformed officers were seen at the grassy area close to Channelside, near to Premier Tiles.

Dave Staunton, the owner of Premier Tiles, said he had been assisting the investigation with the company’s CCTV footage.

"The first I knew about it was when I came into work this morning and saw the police activity," Mr Staunton said.

"I've handed over footage from our CCTV cameras to help the police with their enquiries."

A spokeswoman for Cumbria police said: "Police in Barrow are currently investigating a report of rape which occurred in the town in the early hours of this morning.

"The incident is reported to have happened between 3.30am and 4.30am by the Dock Museum, Barrow.

"The victim, a 21-year-old female, is being supported by specially trained officers.

"Anyone with information who can assist the investigation is asked to contact police on 101 and ask to speak to Barrow CID."