A GIRL of 13 was left so traumatised by a sex attack in a secluded cemetery that she failed to report it to police for more than two weeks.

The young victim was pounced on as she walked through the grounds at the rear of Whitewell Park, Darwen, at around 9pm on Friday, May 23.

Police say she was attacked by a middle-aged man who was walking a dog.

And today they appealed for the public to try to remember if they saw anything unusual in the area and come forward with information about the incident. Det Sgt Rob Campbell of Darwen CID said: "We are convinced that this was a very traumatic incident.

"The victim's family and friends say she has not been the same since the attack and she is not sleeping.

"We have made our own inquiries since the matter was reported and we now need the public's help.

"The person responsible must be caught as soon as possible."

The attacker was white, aged between 40 and 60 and 5ft 8in tall.

He was of medium build with white hair, a white moustache and stubble.

He was walking a small, white, stocky dog with black patches.

Anybody who can help solve the crime should ring Darwen CID on 01254 701777.

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