Two 14-year-old boys arrested over rape of girl, 12

Two 14-year-old boys have been arrested on suspicion of raping a 12-year-old girl in a field next to a school.

Dorset Police said the incident, near Thomas Hardye School in Dorchester, was reported at 19:45 BST on Sunday.

A cordon remains in place while officers examine the scene.

The two boys, from Weymouth, have been released on bail while inquiries continue, police said.

Dorset Police said it was believed the girl had met the two boys earlier in the day.

Thomas Hardye School said none of the children involved were its pupils.

In a letter to parents, head teacher Nick Rutherford said: "The police had asked us not to put anything out to parents until they had concluded their investigations and released the story themselves.

"Police have shared no further details with us, other than to say none of the young people involved are students at our school.

"This is a shocking event that will cause concern to us as parents and to our children."

Mr Rutherford urged students who had worries to speak to a member of staff.

"Of course, if anyone thinks they may have any information relevant to this investigation, they should contact Dorset Police."

Inspector Sam Goom, of Dorset Police, said: "We take reports of sexual offences very seriously and my colleagues have been carrying out extensive enquiries into the incident in recent days while supporting the victim.

"You will see an enhanced police presence around the playing fields as officers maximise their efforts to recover evidence, please do not be alarmed by this.

"We recognise that this incident will cause concern within the community and we would like to encourage everyone to please approach the officers if you have any queries or concerns."

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