An investigation has been launched after reports that a 14-year-old girl was assaulted in a Hitchin alleyway last night.

Police have cordoned off Pinehill Path alleyway – which connects Chiltern Road with Benslow Lane and runs along the side of Pinehill Hospital – following the alleged assault, although the exact nature of the incident is yet to be confirmed.

It has also been reported that forensics have been at the scene today.

A police spokeswoman said: “While the investigation is in the early stages it would not be appropriate to comment further.”