A CHILDREN'S play park has been cordoned off after a young woman was seriously sexually assaulted last night in Basingstoke. 

Detectives are investigating the incident following the assault on a 24-year-old woman between 10pm and 11pm last night in Popley.

A play park between Falkland Road and Ascension Close was cordoned off this morning as part of the investigation, but the search area was later moved to a play park by Bermuda Close, in Popley, where the assault happened.

Part of this park has now been taped off by police.

Officers are also making house-to-house enquiries as part of the investigation, while specialist officers support the victim.

Detective inspector Sion Margrie, of Basingstoke CID, said: “While the investigation is in its early stages, we are very keen to hear from anyone who was in the area of the Bermuda Close play park at the time of this incident.

“Did you notice anything suspicious? Any information you may hold could be important.

“We would like to reassure members of the public that this appears to have been an isolated incident.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Basingstoke CID on 101, quoting reference number 44160373145.

Alternatively, people can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, where information can be left anonymously.