Young girl falls victim to resort sex attack

Officers said a man, slim and wearing a hooded top, carried out the attack before the frightened victim was able to make off on her bicycle.

The young victim, whose age has not been disclosed, initially told a friend about what had happened and then her family alerted the police.

The incident occurred in the alley between New Quay Road and Baxtergate between 8.30pm and 9pm on Wednesday.

Specialist support has been provided to the girl and her family and patrols have been stepped up in the area.

Det Chief Insp Keith Ruff, who is leading the North Yorkshire Police investigation, said: “This is a very disturbing incident which has left the young victim and her loved ones extremely frightened and shocked.

“Serious sexual assault carried out by a stranger is a very rare crime indeed, not least when the victim is so young.

“It is also unusual that the attack was carried out relatively early in the evening and in a generally busy part of the town centre, albeit in the alleyway which links New Quay Road and Baxtergate.”

Police are urging anyone with information to come forward.

Witnesses who saw a girl 
riding a bike in the area at the 
time of the attack or who have any information should call police on 101, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.