By Hayley Robinson

Forensic officers swooped on a village play area to search for clues after a woman was sexually assaulted at the weekend.

They were called to the recreation ground in School Lane, Iwade, at 10.30am on Sunday.

When officers arrived at the scene they found woman in her 30s laying on the ground.

The area was immediately sealed off to the public and house to house enquiries were made.

After gathering evidence the scene was finally reopened at 1pm.

The assault is believed to have happened between 1am and 6am that morning.

The high police presence lead to rumours circulating around the small community that a body had been found but the truth of what really happened has shocked residents in the village.

A resident who didn't want to be named said: "I'm shocked. I don't really know what to say.

"It's not the sort of thing you would expect to happen in the area.

"It's not that it's not a safe place to be, I still feel safe. It's shocking it really is."

A description of the offender has not been released but police are appealing for witnesses to come forward to help them piece together what happened.

Det Sgt Graham Hooks said: "We're doing everything we can to investigate this incident. Officers are carrying out a number of lines of enquiry and we're keen to speak with anyone who was in or near the recreation ground at the time of this reported assault.

"If you can help with this investigation, you should contact the area major enquiry team based at Sittingbourne Police station on 01795 419161."

Alternatively you can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 5551111.