Actor Ed Westwick has issued a statement on social media strongly denying an allegation of rape.

Kristina Cohen wrote on Facebook that the star of BBC2 comedy White Gold (pictured) and Gossip Girl assaulted her at his home three years ago.

The actor has responded with a post saying: "I do not know this woman. I have never forced myself in any manner, on any woman. I certainly have never committed rape."

According to this report Los Angeles Police Department official Drake Madison told the AFP news agency that there was an "ongoing investigation" taking place.

There are reports in the press today that a second woman, Aurélie Wynn, has also accused Westwick of rape, writing on Facebook that she went "through a very similar ordeal with Ed Westwick" as that alleged by Kristina Cohen.

A second series of White Gold, in which Westwick plays smooth double glazing salesman Vincent Swan, has been commissioned by the BBC.

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