Rochdale MBC has apologised for letting down children who were being sexually exploited, following the publication of an independent report.

The report, published today, was commissioned in June 2012 by the council's incoming chief executive, Jim Taylor, following the conviction of nine men from Rochdale and Oldham for grooming and abusing teenage girls.

The report states more should have been done to prevent the grooming and sexual exploitation of children.

‘It is clear from this review that some children were let down by Rochdale MBC,' said chief executive, Jim Taylor.

‘On behalf of the council, I am deeply sorry these young people did not get the care and support they deserved.

‘This review paints a poor picture of the way elements of Rochdale MBC has previously been run,' added Mr Taylor. ‘Hard-working, dedicated staff were also let down by some senior managers who appear to have shown no leadership and taken no responsibility.

‘Since the review was commissioned a new interim management team has overhauled the children's services department and made substantial improvements that have been recognised, both in this report and in the Ofsted inspection last December.'