POLICE are investigating today after an alleged rape in a town centre graveyard in the early hours of this morning.

Officers cordoned off the scene of the alleged incident - in the grounds of the St Nicholas Centre in Franciscan Way, Ipswich - to allow forensics investigators to examine the area.

The 27-year-old victim was out with a friend in Pals last night but became separated from him and at about 2am, decided to get a taxi home alone.

There were no taxis outside but the woman says she struck up a conversation with a man and they decided to walk to Liquid to hail a cab.

But at about 2.30am, the man allegedly raped her in the old churchyard off Franciscan Way. Afterwards, she ran into the road and flagged down a motorist who then called police.

The attacker is described as a white man, aged between 27 and 35, 5ft 9in to 5ft 10in tall and wearing a hooded top. Further details are expected to emerge later today once the victim has been formally interviewed.

Detective Inspector Stephen Clabburn of Ipswich CID said: “This investigation is very much still in the early stages.

“I urge anyone who may have been in the area of the St Nicholas Centre in the early hours of this morning or who has any information which could assist with this enquiry to contact Ipswich CID without delay.”

Officers are investigating the incident, looking through CCTV from the area and getting statements from witnesses.

Anyone who was in the area around the time of the incident, or who has any information about the attack, is asked to call Ipswich CID on 01473 613500 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.