A MAN has been arrested after he was accused of rape.

Initial allegations of assault against a woman in Nelson developed into allegations of rape during police inquiries, and the man was arrested and remains in Burnley police custody awaiting interview.

Police were alerted to the allegations after another woman contacted them on Tuesday night and the man was subsequently arrested at the scene in Smith Street at 10pm.

The alleged victim was taken to a safe house.

Police are due to carry out forensic tests and a search at the house.

Inquiries by the police public protection unit are ongoing.