A teenager has admitted lying to police over claims she was the victim of a serious sexual assault in Ashford.

Officers were called to Nicholas Road, in Kennington, on Friday after receiving reports a young girl was attacked between 8.30pm and 9pm.

An investigation was launched and police were seen in the area, close to the Eureka Science Park, in the following days.

However, it has now come to light that the 16-year-old had wasted police time by making the allegation up.

A spokesman said: "Kent Police received a report of a serious sexual assault which happened in Nicholas Road, close to the Eureka Science Park, between 8.30pm and 9pm on Friday, December 11.

"Officers have since interviewed the complainant, a 16-year-old girl, who has admitted making a malicious allegation."

It is not known if further action will be taken against the teenager.