CCTV bid to find nightclub rapist

Police are to examine close circuit TV recordings in a bid to catch a rapist who struck outside a nightclub near Toomebridge.

A 17-year-old girl was seized by a man at wasteground close to the Elk Inn on the outskirts of the Co Antrim village.

Detective Inspector Tom Woods said tonight: ‘‘This was a vicious attack.’’

Scores of teenagers who were also inside the club are to be questioned as part of the investigation to trace the rapist.

Club staff have pledged their help as well. Manager Liam Spillane said: ‘‘It is a shocking incident. That’s why we want to cooperate fully with the police.’’

Police believe the assault took place between 11pm on Saturday and 2am on Sunday.

The RUC’s CARE Unit in Portstewart has been brought in to investigate the attack and provide counselling for the young victim.