INVESTIGATIONS are continuing into an alleged serious sexual assault near the Duke of Wellington public house, Minehead, in the early hours.

Police have given an update that a man in his 20s who was arrested shortly afterwards was later released on police bail without charge while inquiries were ongoing.

The force had earlier released a CCTV image in an appeal to trace a man they wanted to speak to after a report that a woman was the victim of a serious sexual assault near the public house in the early hours of Sunday, December 11.

Police said the alleged victim, whose identity is legally protected, was being given support.

The man, who has not been identified, was released on bail after being held in police custody.

Anybody who can help provide information is asked to contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers using the reference number 5222295931.