VICTIMS of rape and sexual assault can now self refer to Lincolnshire's new Sexual Assault Referral Centre, which has now been officially opened.

After two and a half years of campaigning by the Echo, the SARC provides a place in which rape and sexual assault victims can confidentially speak to crisis workers, undergo forensic testings, receive treatment and be directed to counselling services.

Chief constable of Lincolnshire Police Richard Crompton performed the official opening ceremony of the facility, which is on the outskirts of Lincoln, yesterday.

Mr Crompton said: "This is a great day for the whole of Lincolnshire because we are in a position where we can provide to the victims of rape and sexual assault a truly gold standard service," he said.

"This is not just about investigation this is about the support and medical assistance and counselling that can be offered to these victims which can be done independently of any police investigation."

The SARC opened its doors to the public on April 19 and to date the police have referred 10 people to the facility and have interviewed six vulnerable witnesses on site. Seven forensic examinations have taken place.

Lincoln MP Karl McCartney, who was present at the ceremony, said: "The SARC was something close to the previous MP Gillian Merron's heart and she put a lot of effort in.

"I'm very pleased to see it come to fruition."

To self refer confidentially to the SARC, independently of the police, ring (01522) 524402 from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday.