AN INVESTIGATION has been launched following claims a 15-year-old schoolgirl was raped at a home in Colchester.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “Detectives are investigating an allegation of rape in Colchester.

“Police were contacted shortly before 9.30pm on Sunday, August 10, to reports a teenage girl had been sexually assaulted at a house in the town earlier that day.

“At this stage the girl has been unable to provide the police with any further details.”

Specialist officers from the sexual offences investigation team have been speaking to the victim, with interviews continuing yesterday.

The spokesman from Essex Police said: “Officers are looking to locate a local man aged in his 20s who may be able to provide information.

“Anyone with information in connection with the allegation is asked to call the sexual offences investigation team on 101 or e-mail soit@essex.pnn.police.uk”

See the full story in today's Gazette.