POLICE investigating the rape of a 14-year-old girl say they are disappointed with the response to an appeal for information.

Detectives in east Durham launched the appeal on Friday when they were made aware of the attack, which happened on Shrove Tuesday, March 4.

It occurred as the girl was walking home after spending the evening with friends in Seaham Harbour.

She was minutes from her home in Dawdon, near Seaham, when she was raped in an alleyway between Princess Road and Grant's Crescent.

The girl was so traumatised that it took her a fortnight to tell her family and the police.

Detective Inspector Sue Knaggs, who is leading the inquiry, said: "We are disappointed, but not totally surprised by the lack of response so far, as the incident did take place almost three weeks ago."

Det Insp Knaggs said that officers were posting 200 leaflets through letterboxes in the area yesterday, as well as carrying out further house-to-house inquiries.

"Hopefully, the leaflet drop will help jog a few memories and bring some useful information," she said.

Anyone with information on the rapist, described as in his mid-30s, with short black hair and a goatee beard, and wearing a leather jacket and light blue jeans, is asked to contact police on 0191-586 2621. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.