A MAN has been charged with rape following an alleged incident near the A12.

Police were called to an area near to junction 22 at Witham in the early hours of Tuesday (July 14) morning after concerns were raised about the welfare of a woman.

Officers arrived and a woman, aged in her 20s, reported she had been raped.

Marian Tanascua, 43, and of no fixed address, was arrested and subsequently charged with three counts of rape.

He is due to appear at Chelmsford Magistrate's Court today (Wednesday, July 15).

Braintree and Uttlesford district commander chief insp Janette Rawlingson said: "Thankfully, incidents like this are rare and Witham remains a safe place.

"Our officers responded quickly to the report and following a thorough investigation process we have charged a man.

"We are not looking for anyone else in connection with this crime and do not believe there to be any further risk to our community.

"Nevertheless, our officers will be patrolling in the area and should anyone have any worries or concerns, please do not hesitate to come and speak to us."