Boy, 16, ‘raped resident at nursing home after breaking in through window’

A 16-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of rape following an attack at a nursing home for the elderly.

He allegedly broke into New Thursby Nursing Home, in Lytham St Annes, near Blackpool, just before 5am on August 4.

Police believe he entered the premises through a ground floor window, and later fled the scene the same way.

The alleged attack was only stopped by a member of staff entering the resident’s room, officers said.

The boy, from Blackpool, was arrested on suspicion of rape and burglary on August 6 and remains in police custody.

Detective Inspector Jamie Lillystone, of Blackpool Police, said: ‘First and foremost our thoughts remain with the victim and their family, who are being cared for by professionals and being supported by specialist officers.

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‘We have had a team of officers working tirelessly on this investigation since Sunday, and we have today made an arrest.

‘However our investigation is very much ongoing and we are continuing to appeal for information.

‘If you know anything at all that could help with our enquiries, we need to hear from you.

‘If you were in the area at around 5am on Sunday and saw anything suspicious, or have any CCTV or dash cam footage that may be useful, please contact us.’

Officers have since stepped up patrols in the area after the attack and are urging people to secure their windows and doors.

Anyone with information should contact police on 101, quoting log number 350 of August 4.