A TEENAGE girl was raped in Ponteland on Thursday evening.

Police are appealing for information after the 16-year-old girl was assaulted around 9.30pm when walking on a cycle track between Ponteland and Darras Hall.

The incident happened  behinds Oaklands on a bridle path that runs between Eastern Way and Old Station Court.

A 20-year-old man was arrested on the suspicion of rape, and is currently in custody helping with enquiries.

Supt. Peter Bent said: "A full investigation is under way into this incident and we are appealing for anyone who might have been out on the cycle track between Ponteland and Darras Hall on Thursday evening and who might have seen anything or anyone suspicious.

"The victim and her family are being given support and assistance by specialist officers and we have extra officers in the local community to speak to and reassure the local community.

"I would urge anyone with any information that could help us to get in touch as soon as possible."

Anyone with any information is asked to contact police on 101 ext 69191 quoting reference number 1400 27/08/15 or by calling Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.