A SERIOUS sexual assault probe has been launched after a woman was attacked in an alleyway near a city centre hotel. 

Essex Police says officers were called shortly before 5.30am yesterday morning to a report of sexual assault in the area of Southchurch Road, Southend, in an alleyway near the Travelodge hotel.

Officers say they attended the location and carried out a number of enquiries.

No arrests have been made at this stage; however, police insist although the investigation is in an early stage, there is no ongoing threat to the wider community.

The victim is being supported by specialist officers whilst enquiries continue.

Det Chief Insp Nicholas Hampson said: “I appreciate that this may shock the local community and I want to reassure you that we will thoroughly investigate this incident to identify those concerned.

“Although our investigation is at an early stage, we believe that there is no ongoing threat to the wider community.

“We have been carrying out enquiries to support our investigation and would ask residents to help us by telling us anything they may know.

“Any information, no matter how small, or footage of the area that captures anything that may help our investigation is welcome.

“The victim is being supported by specialist officers whilst our enquiries continue.”