A MAN has been arrested following the rape of a 17-year-old girl in Darlington has been released on bail, police said tonight.

A 30-year-old local man was arrested on suspicion of rape on Friday.

The girl was attacked in North Park at some point between approximately 9.30pm and 10.45pm on Tuesday, May 14, detectives said.

Detective Chief Inspector Caroline Davies, who is leading the investigation, said on Friday: “We would like to thank members of the public for their support throughout this investigation and for coming forward with valuable pieces of information.

“We have a team of dedicated detectives working on the case and I would urge anyone who may have any information which could help us with our enquiries and has not yet spoken to us to come forward.”

A police spokeswoman confirmed tonight the arrested man has been released on bail.

Anyone with any information should call Darlington CID on 101, or alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.