Freeman charged with rape in Barbados

The Foreign Office has confirmed that Emmerdale actor Ben Freeman was charged with rape while on holiday in Barbados.

He was arrested on the Carribean island earlier this week after an allegation was made by a British woman, a spokeswoman explained.

"A female British national has reported an alleged rape," she said. "That was reported to the Barbadian police on Wednesday.

"The accused is also a British national and we can confirm his details. The next of kin are aware and both individuals are receiving consular assistance."

Windsor, who plays Scott Windsor in the soap, was due in court on Friday but the hearing was postponed, and no details of a further date are available.

Katie Threlfall, Freeman's agent, said she had not been able to speak to the star. She added: "We cannot confirm the details of the story at the moment."

The News of the World said he was holidaying at the Almond Beach Village in the country.