Police have cordoned off an Ashford alleyway today after reports of a serious sex attack.

Officers were called after a woman said she was approached from behind and attacked on a footpath last night.

The path - leading to Swan Farm, which is used by youngsters - remained closed this afternoon as forensic experts scoured the scene.

Detectives said they are not at this stage linking the attack to the three previous sex assaults on women in nearby Singleton by a fat, bald pervert - who has sparked a large-scale manhunt.

Witnesses said they saw officers around the alley, between Curtis Road and Cudworth Road, in South Willesborough, at around 1am.

Kent Police said it was called to reports of a serious sexual assault at just after 10.20pm.

A spokesman said: "It is understood a woman was walking down an alleyway near to Curtis Road when she was approached by a man from behind and attacked."

Police at scene of alleged sex attack. Video: Gary Browne

He added: "Officers have attended the scene and continue to gather evidence and enquiries are ongoing."

A police officer was standing guard at the entrance to the footpath today and scenes-of-crime officers wearing protective suits were seen photographing evidence.

The path leads to a farm used by the Swan Young Farmers club.

A spokesman said: "Following an incident that occurred yesterday evening in the vicinity of the farm, we would like to confirm that the farm is not directly involved with the incident.

"Due to our location the farm will be closed to members and visitors until further notice."

Nearby resident Kate Simmonds, of Cudworth Road, said she was worried to hear there had been an attack in the area.

"That's really worrying because I consider it to be really safe round here," the 32-year-old added.

"It is concerning that it happened, but there is a good community down here and if we remain vigilant hopefully we can stop it happening again."