JOHN Lamb, 18, of Ramsbury Avenue, Penhill, was due to appear before town magistrates today (Friday) charged with raping a girl aged under 16 in Swindon.

The alleged attack happened near the park in Hillary Close, Penhill, on September 13.

Detectives charged him with the offence on Wednesday night and the teenager appeared before magistrates yesterday. Lamb, with closely cropped hair, an eyebrow ring and wearing a blue shirt, only spoke to confirm his full name and address.

After a 45 minute hearing he was remanded in custody to appear before magistrates today, which is his 18th birthday, when it is believed his case will be referred to the crown court.

Magistrates decided against imposing a ban on his identity due to his proximity to being an adult in the eyes of the law.

Lamb spoke briefly to friends in the public gallery as he left the dock.

Yesterday the age of the alleged rapist was wrongly given as 15 years from police to the media.

Following the alleged attack the parents of the alleged victim put out an emotional appeal through the Evening Advertiser to help track down the rapist.

Police released an artist's impression of the suspect after receiving information from the girl.