An Irvine teen accused of sexually assaulting a girl has appeared in court to face the charge.

The 17-year-old – who we can’t identify due to their age – appeared in private to face the allegation last week.

We reported last year the teenager was arrested then later charged after an incident was reported in Gailes Gardens, Tarryholme in July.

They entered no plea to the allegation of sexual assault by penetration at Kilmarnock Sheriff Court last week [Thursday, January 14].

The youngster was committed for further examination and released on bail with their next appearance yet to be confirmed.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said last year: “A 16-year-old has been charged in connection with a sexual assault against a 16-year-old girl, after reports of concern for a person at an address on Gailes Gardens, Irvine around 7.30am on Friday, July 10. A report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.”

Any information can be reported to police on 101 – in an emergency dial 999.