Woman raped outside Stockport church on Christmas Eve

Victim undergoing hospital treatment following attack

The attack happened outside St Mary's in the Marketplace Church in Stockport on 24 December (Google Streetview)

A woman has been raped outside a church on Christmas Eve.

Two men have been arrested over the attack outside St Mary's in the Marketplace church in Stockport, which left the victim in hospital.

“At around 8.05am on 24 December, police were called to reports that a woman had been raped outside a church on Churchgate in Stockport earlier in the morning,” a spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said.

“A woman, aged in her 30s, has been taken to hospital and is being supported by specially trained officers.

“Two men, aged 44 and 57, have been arrested on suspicion of rape and remain in custody for questioning.

“A scene is in place and enquiries are ongoing.”

Police said the victim was still receiving treatment in hospital, and being given support.

Det Insp Julia Bowden said: “Whilst we believe this is an isolated incident and have two men in custody, our investigation is in the very early stages and our enquiries will continue at the scene throughout the afternoon.

“I would encourage anyone who thinks they might have even the smallest piece of information that could assist our investigation to please get in touch as soon as possible.”

Leaders of St Mary's in the Marketplace church said their Christmas communion and carol services would be going ahead as planned.