A SHOCKED councillor has told of her concern after a man reported being sexually assaulted in a Colchester park.

In the aftermath, forensic tents were erected and a police cordon put in place around part of the popular Abbey Field area.

Essex police officers were called there early on Wednesday morning.

The victim, a man in his 30s, was distressed and reported being sexually assaulted.

The police cordon was put in place along part of the southern side of Abbey Field, off Circular Road South.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “We are investigating a report of a sexual assault in Abbey Field, Colchester, which was reported to us shortly after 5.20am on Wednesday.

“The victim, a man aged in his 30s, is now being safeguarded by specialist officers.

“No arrests have been made and our enquiries are ongoing.”

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Meanwhile, ward councillor for Shrub End, Lib Dem Lyn Barton said it was a very concerning incident in a usually quiet part of Colchester.

“It is very distressing to hear about this incident and it is not the sort of thing which happens in this area,” she said.

“Hopefully the victim makes a full recovery and my thoughts go out to him after going through this ordeal.

“I would urge anyone who may have any information to contact their local councillors or the police as soon as possible.”

Abbey Field is surrounded by houses as well as located close to the MoD’s Merville Barracks.

Essex Police are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information about the incident to come forward immediately.

A spokesman said: “Anyone with information on the incident or the circumstances leading up to it should submit a report online at www.essex.police.uk or use the ‘Live Chat’ button to speak to an online operator between 7am-11pm.

“You can also call us on 101. Please cite incident 124 of August 4.”