Detectives have arrested a man on suspicion of rape after an alleged attack in Carlisle city centre.
Officers were called at around 4.40am this morning and attended the incident on Lowther Street.
A 29-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of rape and remains in police custody.
The alleged victim, aged in his 40s, is being supported by specialist officers and enquiries are ongoing.
Officers are appealing for anyone with any information to contact police.
There is currently a cordon in the area of Portland Place and English Gate Plaza North.
Detective Chief Inspector Vicki Coombes, North Cumbria Crime and Safeguarding Team, said: “I’d like to reassure the public that we have a team of detectives investigating this incident.
“An arrest has also been made.
“We are in the early stages and we would welcome the public’s support by reporting information which could assist.”
Anyone with information relating to this incident can report online at www.cumbria.police.uk/reportit , quoting incident number 19 of October 20. You can also call 101.
Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.