A Liverpool man has admitted raping and sexually assaulting a teenage girl in Ribbleton.

The 14-year-old girl was sexually assaulted after being followed by Christopher Croston, 31, formerly of the Netherton area of Liverpool, on her way home on Monday 30 September.

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She had been out with friends around 8.10pm when she started to make her way home along Ribbleton Avenue.

Croston tried to engage her in conversation, and she walked away and continued home.

As she got near the RSPCA building the man dragged her down a set of steps, pushed her to the floor and subjected her to a sexual assault. He then made off towards Ribbleton Hall Drive.

He was traced to an address in Liverpool where Lancashire Police arrested him.

Croston pleaded guilty to rape and sexual assault at Preston Crown Court today. He will be sentenced on February 14 2014.

Detective Inspector Richard McCutcheon, of Lancashire Police’s Major Investigation Team, said: “This was a despicable crime committed by a horrible individual. The only positive action by Croston is that he has pleaded guilty to the offences as this will at least spare his victim having to go through a trial.

“This man has put a young girl through what must have been a terrifying and traumatic ordeal. She has been extremely brave and courageous throughout the investigation and has been supported by specially trained officers. We will continue to offer that support for as long as it is required.”