Man held after violent sex attack

A man was in custody today after a woman was subjected to a violent sex attack in her own home.

The 32-year-old suspect was arrested by Avon and Somerset Police yesterday morning.

The woman, in her 40s, is described as having serious injuries and remains in hospital in a stable condition.

The woman is not believed to have known the attacker, who broke into the terraced house in Bedminster, Bristol, in the early hours of Friday morning.

The attacker carried out what police described as a serious sexual and physical assault before setting the house on fire.

The woman escaped, alerting neighbours to get help.

Residents in the area have been urged to lock their doors and windows and be vigilant about their safety while the police continue to make inquiries.

More than 50 officers, including detectives, forensic teams and officers from Operation Bluestone, the Avon and Somerset force's specialist sexual assault investigation team, have been involved with the investigation.

Officers are appealing for witnesses and urged anyone with information to contact police on 0845 456 7000 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.