Investigations continue into 'horrendous' child rape attack in North West

Police were called to reports a child had been attacked near to Balmoral Drive, Heywood at around 7.45pm on Monday (June 8).

A 24-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of rape. He has since been released on bail, pending further enquiries, said Greater Manchester Police.

Specialist officers are supporting the girl, whose age has not been disclosed, and her family.

Police are urging anyone with information to come forward.

Det Insp David Crewe, of GMP’s Rochdale division, said: "This is a horrendous incident and we have specialist officers who are supporting the girl and her family throughout this difficult ordeal.

"Although a man has been arrested and bailed pending further inquiries, police are still actively investigating to uncover the full circumstances surrounding this crime and enquiries remain ongoing.

"If anyone has any information at all that could help police with their investigation, please do not hesitate to get in touch as soon as possible.”

Anyone with information should call police on 0161 856 4668 or 101 quoting incident number 2536 of 09/06/2020.

Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via their website https://crimestoppers-uk.org/