Man arrested after alleged sex attack at Leven Promenade

Area sealed off as detectives comb scene for evidence

A 37-year-old man has been arrested following allegations of a serious sexual assault in Leven.

It is understood officers are investigating a report of rape in the promenade area at around 10pm on Thursday.

The 23-year-old victim is said to have been badly shaken following the incident next to the old putting green building at the eastern end of the Promenade.

A cordon was thrown up around the scene on Thursday night as detectives combed the area for evidence.

The disused putting green faces the Firth of Forth but is overlooked by houses on the opposite side.

One resident said he had seen police activity from his window as he headed to bed at around 11pm.

“There was a cordon from the lamppost to the putting green hut next to the car park,” he said.

“The police were focusing their attention on the entrance of the road leading to the wee hut. “They were all over the area.” Forensics officers in white suits returned to the promenade yesterday morning to continue the probe but left before lunchtime.

As word of the assault spread, some locals expressed concern for their safety.

One woman in her forties, who asked not to be named, said: “It’s terrible for the poor girl.

“It makes you think about whether you want to go out at night.”

Local councillor Colin Davidson moved to reassure residents, however, saying he understood the incident was contained.

The vice-convener of Fife Council’s Levenmouth area committee said: “Leven is a safe place and it’s very, very uncommon for something like this to happen.

“We have to reassure the public the police have the matter under control and are investigating it.”

Police Scotland confirmed inquiries were ongoing. A spokesperson said: “Police in Fife are investigating a report that a 23-year-old woman was the victim of a serious sexual assault in the Leven Promenade area around 10pm on Thursday February 8.

“A 37-year-old man has been arrested in connection with this and inquiries are ongoing.

“Anyone who may have information which can help is urged to contact police on 101, quoting incident number 3871 of February 8.”

Leven is a safe place and it’s very, very uncommon for something like this to happen. COUNCILLOR COLIN DAVIDSON

Picture: George Mcluskie. The assault is said to have happened by the old putting green hut at the eastern end of the Promenade.