A man was being quizzed by detectives last night after an alleged serious sexual assault on a 13-year-old girl near a bus stop in Bradford.

Police cordoned off the bus turning circle at the far end of Wyke Lane, Wyke, and a small triangular area of wooded land close to playing fields at the back of Appleton Academy.

A forensics tent covered a patch of rough land directly behind the bus stop post and bollards – guarded by two police officers yesterday.

Police were called to reports of a serious sexual assault there at 10pm the previous night.

A 19-year-old man was arrested yesterday morning in connection with the incident and was being interviewed by detectives.

Wyke ward councillor Sarah Ferriby (Lab) said she was shocked and saddened to hear about the alleged assault in the neighbourhood.

And she pleaded with the public who might have “any information at all” to pass it on to police.

“I’m absolutely shocked to hear what might have happened. That end of Wyke Lane is a peaceful spot, it’s semi-rural. Although it’s quite busy during the day with passing cars, it’ll be quiet at night.

“If anyone has any information at all, I hope they will pass it on to the police.”

Fellow ward councillor David Robinson (Lab) added: “If there’s been an assault of this kind then that’s just horrible and my deep sympathy goes out to the young girl and her family. It is at times like this when family ties must be strong.”

And other Wyke councillor, David Warburton (Lab) said: “Let’s hope police carry out their investigations swiftly and that if it turns out to be rape or a similar serious offence that justice is done.

“We have a good relationship with the police in our area and trust them to do their job well.”

A spokesman for Appleton Academy said the cordoned-off crime scene was only marginally on its grounds and they had heard nothing from police.

“None of our pupils have come to us to express any concerns and not one of our parents have been in contact with us either.

“We are in the dark about this but leaving it in the hands of the police for the time being.”