Update on investigation into attack on 90-year-old woman

Spotland Road

Police investigating an attack on a 90-year-old woman in Rochdale are continuing to investigate the circumstances.

A number of forensic tests were fast-tracked by detectives overnight and at this stage there is no forensic evidence to corroborate that an attack of a sexual nature took place.

Specially-trained officers are continuing to work with the 90-year-old lady and offer her support.

Superintendent Alistair Mallen based at Rochdale, said: "We have had an overwhelming response from the public and the media since we publicised this case yesterday and for that we are extremely grateful.

"This demonstrates once again the great sense of community that continues in Rochdale and across the country.

"The lady in question stated she had been raped and she gave the same account when she was video interviewed.

"As people would expect we carried out forensic tests and these were fast-tracked overnight. At this stage no forensic evidence has been obtained.

"However, we are continuing to investigate the full circumstances of what happened to her. Something has clearly happened to this lady so we would like to hear from anyone who saw anything.

"It is important to state that was a report made in good faith, by an elderly, vulnerable lady and, as such, people would always expect us to investigate thoroughly.

"When we receive a report of this nature we will always investigate to establish the full facts and, alongside this, we will do everything we can to support the victim.

"People may question why we took the decision to go public and, to that, I can say that we had a duty of care to both the complainant and to the wider public. When making these decisions we have to weigh up the need to inform the public with the need to reassure them that they are not in any danger.

"Every case is considered on its individual merits at that particular time and, in this case, it was felt the community needed to be made aware.

"The most important aspect to remember is that we will always investigate reports of sexual offences and we always encourage victims to speak to the police.

"We are continuing to appeal to anyone who may have seen this lady to help us piece together exactly what happened."