THREE men have been arrested in connection with the rape of a woman near a fairground.

A 47-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of rape while a 19 and 20-year-old have both been arrested on suspicion of conspiring to rape.

The incident is thought to have taken place in the early hours of the morning between 12.30am and 1.30am on Friday, September 16 at The Level in Brighton.

Sussex Police investigations continue to centre around a fairground, with a spokesman saying that they “continue to appeal for witnesses in The Level area to come forward”.

The Argus: Caravan at fair in BrightonCaravan at fair in Brighton (Image: NQ Staff)

Police have also confirmed that the victim was a woman and that she is now being supported by specially trained officers.

Police were at The Level carrying out investigations at the fairground throughout yesterday.

Around seven or eight officers were seen speaking to people living in caravans on the site. Officers were patrolling the area.

READ MORE: Police at The Level, Brighton, following report of a rape

One fairground worker said that he was unclear as to the focus of the investigations but that police had been questioning all those present at the scene. He added that while they were co-operating with the investigation they had been told very little by officers.

A number of passers-by at The Level said that they were shocked by the incident with one woman describing it as “awful”.

The Argus: Police vehicles were spotted at The Level in BrightonPolice vehicles were spotted at The Level in Brighton (Image: NQ Staff)

The Family Fun Park fairground has been at The Level since Thursday, September 8, and is expected to stay there until Sunday, September 18. The fairground was quiet when The Argus visited the scene with the rides not in use.

Detectives have appealed for any witnesses or anyone who may have seen something suspicious in the area at the time to come forward.

Police have asked that anyone with information should report it online or call 101 and quote Operation Motto.

Alternatively, the public can report information by contacting CrimeStoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Information and support for victims of rape and serious sexual assault can be found online on the Sussex Police website.