A man arrested on suspicion of attempted murder in Worcester in the early hours of this morning has now also been arrested on suspicion of sexual assault.

Police were called shortly after 2am after a 71 year old woman was attacked in Kleve Walk. She remains in hospital in a critical condition after suffering multiple stab wounds.

A 56 year old man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of attempted murder.

He has now also been arrested on suspicion of sexual assault in connection with the attack on the 71 year old woman. He remains in police custody.

Extra patrols will continue in the area to offer reassurance to the local community.

Chief Inspector Brian Gibbs said: “We are treating the incident in the early hours of this morning as an isolated incident and there is no further risk to the wider public.

“However, we understand the impact the concerning nature of this incident has had on the local community and want to let those visiting the city centre this evening know of the steps we’re taking to help make them feel safer.

“The mobile police station will be situated in the area with officers there to speak to members of the public.

“Extra officers will also be carrying out patrols in and around the river path which will continue throughout the rest of the weekend. I really would encourage anyone who is concerned to speak to one of my officers either at the mobile police station or officer on patrol.”