A MAN has been released on conditional bail to a Cumbrian address after an alleged rape.

Detectives are appealing for information after a woman reported she had been raped in Heysham, Lancashire.

Lawrence Lowther, 23, of Lucy Street, Morecambe, has been charged with rape.

A Morecambe Area Police spokesman said: "We launched an investigation after the woman, in her 20s, was seriously sexually assaulted close to St James Court in the town.

"As a result of the investigation, a 23 year old male was arrested, and subsequently charged with the offence. He was released on conditional bail by Preston Crown Court to reside at an address in Cumbria, and is due to appear in court in early June.

"The incident happened in the early hours of Saturday (May 7) The woman is being supported by specially trained officers.

"Enquiries are ongoing and we are keen to speak with anyone who was in the Strawberry Gardens Public house between 11:30pm on Friday 6th May and 12:30am on Saturday 7th May.

"We would also like to speak to anyone who was on Heysham Road between the Strawberry Gardens Public House and St James Court (where the COVID vaccination programme is) between 12:15am and 1am, or who has any CCTV footage, Ring doorbell or dashcam footage in that location between those times."

Anyone with information should contact Investigating Officer, Det Con Peter Bennett either by email to 3786@lancaster.police.uk or by phone on 01524 596452.

Following a trial, Mr Lowther was found not guilty of the offence.