A man has been charged after a woman was raped in a park.

Watling Park in Burnt Oak was first cordoned off on Monday (September 25), after reports of a rape in the area at around 2.15am that morning.

Aurel Surugiu, 40, of Highview Gardens in Edgware, appeared at Willesden Magistrates’ Court on Thursday (September 28) where he was charged with three counts of rape and one count of sexual assault by penetration.

The park was closed after reports of the attack.

He was remanded in custody, but the next court date has not been set yet.

Surugiu was arrested for these offences on Tuesday (September 26).

A Met Police spokesperson said earlier in the week: "The public should expect to see extra officers on patrol in the area. We would remind people to be aware of their surroundings and to speak to officers with any concerns.”