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A boy will face trial accused of the rape and attempted murder of a 10-year-old girl in Exmouth.

The 16-year-old, who cannot be named because of his age, appeared via video link from custody at Exeter Crown Court on Friday.

He is charged with the alleged violent attack which happened on October 4.

The teen spoke only to confirm his name and date of birth during a hearing lasting almost an hour.

Prosecutor Anna Vigars QC outlined the case progress for the Crown.

The defendant was represented in court by Ms Jennifer Tallentine.

She requested an adjournment before pleas are taken.

The charges were not formally put to the defendant and he was not required to enter pleas.

High Court Judge Mr Justice Dingemans adjourned the case.

He told the defendant the trial date would be February 25. It is likely to last eight days.

The youth was remanded in custody until the next hearing on December 18.

Detectives from Devon and Cornwall Police were also in court to hear proceedings.

The alleged attack sparked a major police investigation and shocked the community.

Warning on the law

A police spokesman said previously: "Officers from the Forces' Major Crime Investigation Team have formally charged a 16-year-old male in connection with a violent assault on a 10-year-old girl that took place on Thursday, October 4 in the Marley Road area of Exmouth.

"In the meantime, we need to remind the public of the law surrounding this matter.

"Anyone who is alleged to be a victim of a sexual crime are automatically granted anonymity for life; regardless of their age and regardless of the outcome of any subsequent criminal trial.

"Any suspect under the age of 18 is also by law not allowed to be identified.

"These rules are not solely for media organisations to adhere to, they also apply to members of the public and includes information posted via social media.

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"This may be seen as interfering with a live investigation and an active criminal trial, and therefore could see those who do not adhere found in contempt of court. This means that they would find themselves called before a judge and landed with a criminal record.

"We therefore remind the public that it is vital that they do not speculate on the identity of either the victim or the suspect in this case."