A 13-YEAR-OLD thought she would die after being subjected to a rape ordeal.

The attack was so severe that the police officer investigating the case said it was the worst he had seen in 20 years in the force.

The youngster was walking with her dog on land near Imperial Road, Billingham, Teesside, at about 6.30pm on Saturday when the attack took place.

She was left so badly injured that she had to undergo surgery and was detained in hospital overnight.

Detective Sergeant Adrian Bradley, of Stockton police, said: "I have been doing this job for 20 years and you become immune to a lot of things.

"This brings home what a horrific experience this young girl must have gone through. She truly thought she was going to be killed.

"It is absolutely appalling."

The incident has shocked residents in the close-knit community.

Ged McGuire, the chairman of South Billingham Residents' Association, said: "You do not think this sort of thing is going to happen on your own doorstep.

"You hear about it happening elsewhere and view it as being away, but for something like that to happen in this area is terrible.

"All the residents will be absolutely distraught as it is a very close-knit community.

"There are no words to describe the ordeal this young girl must have gone through. I do not think people around here can quite believe it."

Another local said: "It is such a terrible thing to happen. It makes me shiver just thinking about it.

"I have read about things like this in other parts of the country and now it has happened on my doorstep.

"There is nothing more I can say really as I think we are all just in shock."

Police are appealing for information and want to speak to anyone who may have been in the area at the time.

People are asked to call (01642) 326326.

* Two youths, aged 16 and 17, were last night charged with rape, and aggravated vehicle taking from a separate incident.