A HUNT has been launched for a sex attacker who targeted a schoolgirl in a town centre alleyway.

Police said the man approached the girl in an alleyway between New Quay Road and Baxtergate, in Whitby, between 8.30pm and 9pm on Wednesday and assaulted her, before she managed to escape on her bike.

She initially told a friend what had happened, before her family alerted the police.

Specialist police and medical support has been provided to the girl, who police said was aged under 16.

Patrols have been stepped up to provide extra reassurance for residents and visitors, while dozens of officers are said to be involved with the investigation into the attack.

A North Yorkshire Police spokesman said it was possible residents or visitors to the resort witnessed the incident, but did not realise what was happening.

He said detectives wanted to hear fromanyone who saw suspicious activity in the area on Wednesday evening or a girl riding a bike in the town centre around the time of the attack.

Police have not released a description of the attacker.

Detective Chief Inspector Keith Ruff, who is leading the investigation, said: "This is a very disturbing incident which has left the young victim and her loved ones extremely frightened and shocked.

“Serious sexual assault carried out by a stranger is a very rare crime indeed, not least when the victim is so young.

“It is also unusual that the attack was carried out relatively early in the evening and in a generally busy part of the town centre, albeit in the alleyway which links New Quay Road and Baxtergate.

"It is vital that people come forward as soon as possible if they have information. No matter how small or seemingly insignificant the information may appear to be, please do the right thing and make contact with the police so we can determine its importance."

Anybody with information should phone police on 101, select option one and ask for the force control room, or contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555111. Callers should quote the crime reference number 12120153100.