Police patrols have been stepped up in Brighton after separate reports of rape and sexual assault resulted in two men being charged and another arrested.

The first incident is reported to have taken place on 6 September when a young woman is said to have been attacked on the beach near the pier after midnight.

Police were then called to London Road two days later after a woman in her 20s was allegedly sexually assaulted in the early hours.

A man has been charged with rape and attempted rape over these two incidents and remains in custody.

On 10 September, police were called to the beach near Kings Road Arches at around 5.35am over concerns for a woman in her 30s.

Another man was arrested and charged with rape, and police are investigating a second suspect captured on CCTV.

On 16 September, a woman in her 20s said she had been attacked on the beach in the early hours – leading to the arrest of a 31-year-old man on suspicion of rape and drug possession.

An investigation is also ongoing into reports of a woman being raped near the pier, and another sexually assaulted nearby, shortly after 3am on 24 September.

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“We have extra officers carrying out extended patrols in the area,” said Detective Superintendent Richard McDonagh.

“In addition to extended patrols in the area, we are working with venues and partners, including night safety marshals, beach patrol, taxi marshals and Safe Space, to help keep people safe.

“Digital screens highlighting support services such as night safety marshals, who can escort people to safe locations and link in with officers via their mobile handsets, are also being displayed in venues across Brighton.

“If you have concerns or feel unsafe, please contact police or a member of security staff, or dial 999 in an emergency.”

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