Police are continuing to investigate the rape of a teenage girl in Rochdale

Police are continuing to investigate the rape of a teenage girl in Wardle on Wednesday 15 January 2020.

The offender is described as being black or of dual heritage, between 30 and 40-years-old, around 5ft 8ins tall and of medium build. At the time of the incident, he was wearing blue jeans and smelt strongly of aftershave.

• www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/132349/police-investigating-the-rape-of-16year-old-girl-in-wardle

Police enquiries are ongoing and significant lines of enquiry are being explored.

Superintendent Richard Hunt, of GMP’s Rochdale division, said: “I would like to start by saying that, as our investigation continues, our thoughts remain with the victim and her family. Specialist officers are continuing to support them.

“We are committed to identifying the man responsible and bringing him to justice so I would like to take this opportunity to ask anyone who has any information which may assist us to contact us as soon as possible.   

“Incidents like this understandably cause concerns in communities but a dedicated team of officers are working tirelessly and will continue to into the weekend. To offer reassurance, the mobile police station and increased patrols will remain in place for the foreseeable future.

“I am thankful to those who have seen our appeal and have spoken with my officers and would like to stress that we will continue to follow every possible line of enquiry. This serious offending is abhorrent and will not be tolerated."

The mobile police station is on Birch Road, Wardle, Rochdale and will be staffed seven days a week between the hours of 7am and 9pm.

Anyone with information should contact police on 0161 856 4646 quoting 2066 15/01/2020.

Alternatively, contact the independent charity – Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555 111.

If you or someone you know has been raped or sexually assaulted, we encourage you not to suffer in silence and report it to the police, or a support agency so you can get the help and support available.

You can call Greater Manchester Police on 101, or alternatively people can refer themselves to St Mary's Sexual Assault Referral Centre on 0161 276 6515, whether or not you want make a police report.

Manchester Rape Crisis is a confidential support service run by women for women and girls who have been raped or sexually abused. Confidential helpline: 0161 273 4500.