A community is in shock after five boys were arrested over a rape allegation.
Police are continuing to investigate the incident on the Field Lane Estate in Rastrick – the largest estate in Calderdale.
The boys – all aged 12 and 13 – have been arrested after the incident last Friday and have since been released on bail pending further inquiries.
Rastrick conservative councillor Chris Pillai said: “All three ward councillors are aware of the allegation and are trying to get more information so we can respond. The community is in shock.”
And yesterday community leaders and ward councillors met with police at a six-weekly meeting and the incident was due to be discussed.
Field Lane Residents Association chairwoman Andrea Bloom, who attended the meeting, said: “I heard about it at the weekend and we are all shocked.
“The meeting is a planned event with police but we are expecting to hear more.”
Lower Valley Neighbourhood Police officers led by Insp Mohammed Nawaz have been reassuring the public and local community.
Officers have also visited local schools and there are extra high visibility patrols.
Chairman of community group Rastrick Big Local, Jason Middleton said: “I am shocked and I am sure the community will be shocked.
“We have a very tight-knit community here.
“Field Lane Estate is a big estate. There is a good level of police presence and the local housing association have also done a lot of work there.
“I think this will be a major shock for all of them.”
A police spokesman said: “Police are investigating reports of a rape allegation made by a young girl against five boys aged 12 and 13 years old in Calderdale.
“All five suspects were arrested and have since been released on bail as inquiries continue.”
The alleged incident is said to have happened last Friday night and was reported to police on Saturday.
Anyone with information about the incident should call Calderdale police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.