A man has been charged with rape following an incident in Chelmsford.

A 17-year-old girl reported to police she had been raped in Viaduct Road at 10.30pm on Friday.

Winston Desantos, 38, unemployed, of no fixed abode, has been remanded in custody and is due to appear at Chelmsford Magistrates' Court today.

The girl is now being supported by specially-trained officers.

Shortly after the incident, a block of flats in Burgess Springs, adjacent to Duke Street, was cordoned off by police.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact DI Nikki Simpson at the Adult Sexual Assault Investigation Team on 101 quoting, reference 1130 of April 21.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.