TWO men arrested over a sex attack on a woman in a Southport cemetery have been released on bail.

The 24-year-old victim had been out in the area of Bakers Bar, Southport, on Thursday last week, before she was assaulted in Duke Street cemetery at 4am.

Merseyside Police arrested two men, aged 28 and 32, both from Southport, on suspicion of rape.

They were questioned by officers and released on bail pending further inquiries.

The arrests followed a high- visibility operation close to the scene.

Bar staff and customers were asked if they had seen anything suspicious on Wednesday night or Thursday morning which could help to catch the rapist.

The victim has been left severely traumatised by her ordeal and remains seriously injured in hospital, police said.

She sustained serious facial injuries during the attack and is currently being treated.

Detective Chief Inspector Nikki Holland said: “It was a dreadful thing to have happened and she is finding it difficult to come to terms with it.

“I would like to reassure members of the public that this type of incident is rare.

“However, we would never be complacent and would take this opportunity to urge all women to take care when they are out at night.

“Be streetwise and try not to put yourself in the position where you might be vulnerable.”

Merseyside Police have issued safety advice to women, advising them to avoid dark and unlit areas.

Women were also advised to buy a personal attack alarm and make travel arrangements in advance.

Merseyside Police are appealing for anyone who may have any information to ring 0151 777 3165 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.