Football boss denies sex assault

Mr Sullivan was said to "categorically deny" the assault

The co-owner of Birmingham City Football Club has "categorically denied" sexually assaulting a 25-year-old woman in Essex.

A statement released by the club said David Sullivan, 59, of Essex, voluntarily attended a police station on Tuesday following the allegation.

An Essex Police spokesman said a woman from East London contacted them saying she was attacked in Theydon Bois.

He said a 59-year-old man was arrested and later released on bail.

A statement released by Birmingham City said: "David Sullivan confirms that he voluntarily attended a police station yesterday following an allegation made against him and gave a 30-minute interview in which he provided the police with a full explanation of the circumstances.

"He categorically denies the allegation which centres around consensual sexual touching. The allegation is totally without foundation.

"Despite a report to the contrary, there was no DNA taken, no search of his home and no clothing removed.

"Neither David Sullivan nor anyone on his behalf will be making any further comment in respect of the matter."

An Essex Police spokesman said: "Police were contacted by a 25-year-old woman from East London at 0100 BST on Tuesday who said she was assaulted at a house in a village.

"Detectives arrested a 59-year-old man from the Epping Forest area in relation to sexual touching and released him on police bail."