POLICE have charged a 15-year-old youth with the rape of a 14-year-old girl in Swindon.

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

Detectives arrested the Swindon boy at 10am yesterday, and charged him with the offence last night. The teenager, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was due to appear before Swindon Youth Court today.

The parents of the girl put out an emotional appeal through the Evening Advertiser to help track down the rapist.

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

Officers said he was wearing a greenhooded top and dark coloured baseball cap.