Girl knocked unconscious and sexually assaulted in Wester Hailes

A MAJOR manhunt has been launched after a 14-year-old girl was subjected to a serious sexual assault in a woodland.

Police were combing the area around Wester Hailes Park and Clovenstone Road over the weekend.

The attack happened in February but the distraught victim only came forward last Wednesday prompting the investigation.

The girl was struck to the back of the head as she walked along the footpath and woke up in the wooded area.

Police were out in Wester Hailes over the weekend

It’s believed that she was the victim of a serious sexual assault while she was unconscious.

Detective Inspector Julie Marshall of Edinburgh’s Public Protection Unit said: “I want to commend the victim for her bravery in coming forward and reassure the community that we have launched an extensive investigation into this.

“Since this was reported to us on 14th June we’ve had specialist resources in attendance at the scene and local officers are continuing to conduct enquiries within the area.

“We’re also appealing to anyone who may have seen suspicious behaviour in the area around the 3rd February, or has any information which can help, to get in touch as soon as possible.”

Those with information can contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 2901 of 14 June, or report this anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.