A MAJOR police inquiry was launched in Rossendale today and a car park was sealed off while police investigated a sex attack.

Det Sgt Stuart Barlow, head of Rossendale CID, said a 16-year-old local girl had been out in Rawtenstall and had been walking back to the Hall Carr Estate in the early hours of today when she was approached from behind by a group of three men and was sexually attacked by at least one of them.

Today the car park off Bury Road, Rawtenstall, between Hooper's Newsagent and Newhallhey Social Club was sealed off and police officers were standing guard.

Mr Barlow said: "She had been in Madisons on Sunday night and was making her way home after midnight.

"We would like the two other men who were in the group of three or anyone who was in the area at the time and who saw anyone acting suspiciously to come forward"

Police are still waiting to interview the girl.