A group of men have been praised after stopping the alleged attempted rape of a teenager and holding the suspect until officers arrived.

The men disturbed the attacker in a car park in Ashton-under-Lyne, Greater Manchester, as he allegedly attempted to rape a 17-year-old female on Friday night.

The group was able to stop the attack and chased the suspect, holding him until police arrived.

A 23-year-old man is in custody for questioning.

Detective Inspector Karl Ward said: "First of all, my thoughts are with the girl who was victim to this terrifying attack, she is getting specialist support and we will continue to help her get through this horrible ordeal.


"Secondly, I would like to take my hat off to the group of men who intervened, stopped the attack, then gave chase so police were able to make an arrest.

"This is a great example of the police and public working together to stop crime, and I am extremely thankful to them for their assistance."

Officers are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

:: Anyone with information should call 101 or 0161 856 8915 quoting the reference number 2314 of 01/02/19 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.