A GIRL was the victim of a serious sexual assault last night (November 16).

Police attended Scott Park, Burnley, at around 5.30pm following reports that a teenage girl had been grabbed from behind by a man and subjected to a serious sexual assault.

A crime scene is currently in place in the park and although no arrest has been made at this stage enquiries are ongoing to identify a suspect.

There was a large police presence at the park last night and an area of the park remains cordoned off. The attack is being treated as an "isolated incident".

DCI Derry Crorken, of East CID, said: “I understand residents will be concerned and I would like to reassure them that incidents of this nature are very rare.

“We have a dedicated team of officers working on this case and residents will see an increased police presence in the area over the coming days. I would urge anyone with concerns or anybody with information which could help our enquiries to stop an officer and say hello.

“I know that the park is well used, particularly by dog walkers, and I would urge anybody who was in the area between 5.30pm and 5.45pm and saw anything suspicious to please contact police.”

A spokesperson for Lancashire Police said: "We were called at 5.37pm yesterday (November 16) to Scott Park, Burnley, following reports a teenage girl had been subjected to a serious sexual assault by a man.

"A scene is currently in place in the park and although no arrest has been made at this stage enquiries are ongoing to identify a suspect.

Lancashire Telegraph: CORDON: A police cordon remains in place this morning (November 17)CORDON: A police cordon remains in place this morning (November 17)

"The victim and her family are being supported by officers at this time.

"A comprehensive reassurance plan has already been put in place, including increased police patrols in the area.

"Anyone who witnessed anything suspicious in the area around that time or anybody with CCTV, mobile phone or dashcam footage which could assist our investigation is asked to call 101, quoting log 1110 of November 16th, 2021.

"Alternatively report it online via https://doitonline.lancashire.police.uk/ or call independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555111."