A MAN has been charged with kidnapping and raping an 11-year-old girl following an alleged assault in Colne.

Justin Widdop, 27, will appear before magistrates in Burnley tomorrow on two counts of rape, one of false imprisonment and one of kidnap.

Police launched an investigation after an alleged sexual assault on the girl in Coal Pit Lane on Thursday.

Officers are appealing for witnesses to call them on 01282 425001.