Detectives investigating reports of a 14-year-old girl who was raped in Burnley have arrested a man.

The 30-year-old from Nelson has been arrested on suspicion of rape and is in custody tonight.

It is expected that he will be questioned tomorrow morning.

The arrest comes after police continued to investigate reports that a girl was raped close to the Charter Walk car park on New Year's Day at around 9am.

Earlier police had released a picture of a man they wanted to speak to in connection with the assault.

Police have stepped up patrols in the area.

Detective Inspector Tim McDermott said: “We would like to reassure the public that incidents of this type are rare and we have a number of officers working on the enquiry.

“The girl is being supported by specially trained officers."

Politicians have spoken of their shock at the incident.

Cllr Mark Townsend, leader of Burnley Council, said: “This is obviously an appalling incident.

"The police are right these types of incidents are rare but it does not make it any easier for the victim."