Papergirl raped

Police are appealing for witnesses after a 14-year-old girl was raped as she started her early morning round delivering newspapers. The girl, from South Shields, Tyne and Wear, was attacked in the Harton area of the town. A man approached her from behind, pulled her into a lane and raped her.

The girl is said to be shocked and extremely upset over the attack, which happened at about 7am on 6 January. She is being comforted by police, family and friends.

Her attacker is described as in his 20s, medium build and of mixed race, with golden coloured skin. He had black hair, short at the sides, longer on top, and a Tyneside accent. He was wearing a yellow jacket and smart black dress trousers.

Police say there is no connection between the attack and the rape of a 15-year-old girl a few days later in Hebburn, South Tyneside.