Yesterday, we revealed that Cumbria Constabulary record around two child rape reports every week.

Our special report uncovered shock statistics showing there has been more than 1,100 rape cases involving children investigated by the force in a decade.

And Home Office data shows few victims will see justice served, with more than three-quarters of the investigations closed last year dropped due to evidential difficulties.

Read more: Two child rape cases every week reported in Cumbria

Nearly half of all of the investigations concluded saw a victim withdraw their support for the case.

We asked police what is contributing to the rise in child rape reports across Cumbria, and what is being done to tackle the problem and support young victims.

Detective Chief Inspector James Yallow, who works in Cumbria Constabulary’s Public Protection Unit, responded.

These are his comments in full.

“Cumbria Constabulary take all reports of sexual offences and rape extremely seriously, and our main aim is to protect vulnerable people.

“We encourage any victim of rape to report this to the police.  However, we also understand that some victims may not feel ready and may wish to seek support first.  For a child this may involve speaking to a trusted adult and / or family member.   

The Mail: Cumbria Constabulary

“Specialist officers support child victims of rape and their families during an investigation and through the judicial process, there are also specialist support services in this area such as the Bridgeway who work closely with Safety Net and The Birchall Trust.

“We also understand from extensive research that not all victims want to attend court and this can be for many reasons. 

“The police consider the individual circumstances of each and every case and will always seek justice for the victim as well as ensuring we sustain long term public protection by addressing offending behaviour.

“Rape crimes can be complex to investigate, especially in historical reports or where the offender is also a child.  Where we have sufficient evidence we will always look to prosecute offenders.

Read more: Sex offenders and violent criminals bailed for over a year

“Cumbria Constabulary continue to work closely with local support services and schools through our child centred policing teams; providing inputs around healthy relationships and consent, in order to prevent harmful sexual behaviour.   

If you wish to report a crime, please visit www.cumbria.police.uk/report-it or call 101.

Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

If you have been affected by rape or sexual assault, you can contact The Bridgeway's 24/7 support helpline on 0808 118 6432.

For advice and support visit Rape and Sexual Assault - Cumbria Constabulary