A man has been arrested after a serious assault on a woman in a bungalow.

Police spent the weekend searching for clues at the property in Halfway, on the Isle of Sheppey after the attack in the early hours of Saturday morning.

They remained at the scene today where detectives were seen carrying out large plastic sacks full of evidence and loading them into vans.

It is understood the victim was taken to hospital but it is not known what her injuries are or who or how the alarm was raised.

Police said today a Sheppey man aged 43 had been arrested in Hackney, east London, on Sunday night at 10.30pm on suspicion of aggravated burglary. He was still in custody this morning.

A spokesman said: "A woman was seriously assaulted before a car was stolen from the address."

Neighbours said they were "stunned" but had little information about the victim.

One neighbour said: "

During the night part of our fence was knocked over. I'm not sure if it was anything to do with what happened. We didn't hear anything."

Another neighbour, who did not want to be named, said: "It's shocking. We are all stunned. You just don't expect a thing like this, whatever it is, to happen on Sheppey. We are very concerned not only for the woman but also for the rest of the community."

Police confirmed this afternoon that the victim was still in hospital where she was being supported by officers. Her condition is said to be stable.

Police have since launched an appeal for witnesses. Anyone who saw or heard anything suspicious should call 01795 419119 using reference 46/86627/22. Crimestoppers can also be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111 or by using the online form here.