A MAN was being held by police today following an allegation of rape at a Suffolk village.The attack is reported to have happened in a roadside lay-by at Pettaugh, near Debenham.

A MAN was being held by police today following an allegation of rape at a Suffolk village.

The attack is reported to have happened in a roadside lay-by at Pettaugh, near Debenham.

The victim is from Stowmarket and was today being interviewed by specially trained police officers who were piecing together the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The 27-year-old reported the sex attack to the police late yesterday evening.

The incident, which happened between 7pm and 9.30pm, occurred in a lay-by on the A1120, on the outskirts of Pettaugh.

The arrested man is a 49-year-old from a small village near Stowmarket. Police confirmed he is not from Pettaugh.

He was arrested early today on suspicion of rape and is being held in Bury St Edmunds police station while detectives continue to investigate.

He was also due to be interviewed further about the allegation today.

Officers have also turned to the public for help with their investigation.

A police spokesman said: "We are now looking for individuals who may be able to provide information.

"Detectives would like to hear from anyone who passed through Pettaugh yesterday evening and witnessed any suspicious activity along the roadside."

Anyone with information is asked to telephone Stowmarket CID on 01284 774100 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.