A REPORTED rape of a school girl in a country lane did not take place, police have said.

An investigation was launched earlier this week after a 14-year-old girl reported she had been attacked and raped by a man in a quiet lane near Billingshurst.

The attack was alleged to have happened in a lane off Okehurst Road, in an area known as The Haven, between about 12.15pm and 1.15pm on Monday, March 1.

However, officers have closed the investigation.

Detective Inspector David Grover of the West Sussex Safeguarding Investigations Unit said: "We will always follow up and fully investigate all such reports.

"In this case, our detailed enquiries have led us to the clear conclusion that the reported offence did not in fact take place and the police investigation is now closed.

"Throughout the investigation the girl has continued to receive support from specially trained officers, and has also been able to access other specialist sources of independent advice and support.

“I’d like to thank the community for the support they have provided and reassure them that this incident is now resolved.

"We also continue to encourage anyone who has been a victim of any sexual offence, or knows of someone who has been, to speak to us in confidence so that we can ensure they receive support and so that we can investigate and wherever appropriate seek justice for them."