A WOMAN who told police she had been 'violently raped' has admitted she was lying.

Elizabeth Wilkinson, 20, of Skipton Old Road, Foulridge, pleaded guilty to perverting the course of justice after claiming she had been sexually attacked by man at his house in Colne last September.

As a result of her allegation a 22-year-old man was arrested and interviewed at Burnley station as police detectives launched an investigation into what they described as a 'horrific attack'.

Burnley Crown Court heard police dicovered that Wilkinson had lied to her friends and officers about the circumstances surrounding the alleged rape.

After the caseDetective Sergeant Stephen Holgate of Pendle CID said: “Offences of rape have a huge impact on the victims leaving emotional scars for many years.

“Every effort is made to ensure victims of such crimes have confidence in the police with specially trained officers ensuring the best possible care is given whilst investigating the matter to the highest standards.

“This is a life-changing offence and is treated as such. In making this false allegation Elizabeth Wilkinson has undermined the genuine victims of this horrific crime.

“An innocent man lost his liberty and has suffered considerable emotional distress as a result of her lies.”

Wilkinson will appear at Burnley Crown Court for sentencing on Friday July 30.

Her barrister, Mark Stuart said the court should have not only a pre-sentence report, but also a psychological report before sentence was passed.

Wilkinson was bailed unconditionally.

Judge Andrew Woolman told her: "I must make it clear to you that the fact I am re-granting you bail and the fact I am adjourning for reports does not mean the court has made it's mind up about the appropriate sentence in this case. It's a serious allegation and you must understand custody is a distinct option."