Rugby three arrested over alleged rape

Three rugby players have been arrested after a woman was allegedly raped at a hotel in Bewdley.

The alleged offence is believed to have taken place at the Ramada Hotel after the England Counties team defeated an Irish squad.

The Rugby Football Union confirmed today it has launched its own inquiry.

West Mercia Police said the trio were arrested in connection with a "serious sexual offence" on a woman.

The alleged attack is believed to have taken place in the early hours of Saturday, between 3.45am and 4.15am.

The three men were arrested on Saturday and held at separate police stations before being bailed to return to Kidderminster Police Station pending further enquiries.

Detective Inspector Terry Shore, who is leading the inquiry, said: "Our investigations are currently focused on one location in Bewdley, and we hope that residents will be reassured that the police are focused on carrying out an immediate and thorough investigation into the incident."

RFU spokesman Peter Thomas said the players were "co-operating fully" with the police.

"The RFU is aware of allegations made against a small number of the England Counties squad. The police are currently investigating those allegations and the RFU and the players are co-operating fully with that investigation."