Community in shock after woman raped in park

People living near a Stockport park which was sealed off by police investigating the rape of a woman have spoken of their shock and concern. All entrances to Thornfield Park in Heaton Mersey were taped off this morning (Thursday) after the attack was reported to officers around 5:30am.

A man has been arrested on suspicion of rape and remains in custody for questioning. The woman is being supported by specialist officers Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said.

Dog walkers and local residents wanting to access the park were visibly shocked as they arrived to find the large police cordon in place with officers standing guard.

READ MORE: Police 'increasingly worried' about missing man at the centre of untrue social media speculation he's linked to alleged crime

And they said they had been left shocked and upset as details of the incident emerged. One nearby resident, who did not want to be named, said: "It's really shocking isn't it. I think it's going on all over the country isn't it. But this if the first time I've heard of something like this happening around here. It's very worrying."

A man who gave his name as John said: "It's shocking. Very shocking, to be honest. It just feels like there's a real issue with law and order at the minute. And this just shows no area is immune."

Another man said: "It happening on your doorstep like this it is a real concern. But it shows you, no area is safe."

A dog walker who regularly uses the park said: "I think a lot of people will be very shocked and upset as well. I just hope the woman is okay."

Whilst a woman living nearby said: "It is a real shock. It's really bad. It's bad in any area but particularly in this one as you just wouldn't expect it."

GMP said in a statement: "At