Arrest made in connection with serious sexual assault on 14-year-old girl in Harrogate's Pinewoods

The suspect is currently helping police with their enquiries.

Police are continuing to seek further information and witnesses in relation to the assault which happened at around 4am yesterday (Tuesday, 16 February).

The teenager was grabbed by three men in the town’s Valley Gardens and was taken to a wooded area near Harlow Moor Road, where she was subjected to a serious sexual assault.

The investigation remains at a very early stage, and detectives are continuing to appeal to the public for information.

Detective Chief Inspector Dave Ellis, of North Yorkshire Police, said: “We’re continuing to provide specialist support to the victim today.

“I’d like to emphasise that investigations remain ongoing and the public’s help is vital, so we’d urge anyone with any information to come forward.

“We realise the incident will cause a great deal of concern in the local community. But I’d like to reassure residents that we are doing everything possible to investigate this incident while providing a strong police presence in the community.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact North Yorkshire Police on 101 and quote incident number 12160028307.

You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.