A 14-year-old girl was raped in Barrhead as she made her way home from the shops.

At around 8.15pm on Sunday, a 14-year-old girl had been out cycling when she went to the ASDA in Main Street Shopping Centre, Barrhead. 

As she left the store to collect her bike, a man approached her and forced her into nearby bushes where he subjected her to a serious sexual assault. 

The suspect is described as white, aged between 20 and 30 years of age with a medium build. 

He was wearing a white trilby style hat, a grey zipped top with white striped sleeves, grey jogging style trousers and grey coloured trainers, he was also carrying an oversized black holdall bag.

Detectives are carrying out extensive enquiries, including reviewing all available CCTV footage and carrying out local enquiries door to door.

Detective Inspector Gillian Patrick said: “This was a particularly traumatic experience for the young girl concerned, who had been out in the local area before being attacked.

"I would like to reassure the local community that we are continuing extensive enquiries into this incident. 

"We know the man was in the shop prior to the incident taking place and I am appealing to anyone who may have been shopping around that time to think about whether they may have seen this man or noticed anything suspicious. 

"If you have any information or knowledge about this crime, please talk to officers and pass it on – it could prove vital in helping us trace the man responsible for this attack."  

Detective Inspector Patrick continued: “I’m aware this incident will be of concern to people and I would like to confirm that additional patrols will be in the area to offer reassurance to local people and if anyone has any concerns, please speak to officers.”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Detectives at Saracen Police Office on 101.

Alternatively, please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be given anonymously.