12-year-old girl sexually assaulted

GMP

A 12-year-old girl has been sexually assaulted in Rochdale.

At around 9.00pm on Tuesday 28 June 2011, the victim was walking along a canal towpath near to Brown Lodge Street in the direction of Littleborough when a man on a pedal bike rode passed her.

He then turned his bike around and cycled towards her as she turned to walk down what are locally known as the ABC steps.

The man followed her, approached her and asked if she was okay before he rugby tackled her to the ground.

He tried to pull her leggings down before she screamed and told him to stop. He ran off up the steps and in the direction he came from.

The man is described as being white, in his 20s, 5ft 7in tall and of slim build. He had brown eyes, short brown hair and a slim pale face. He was wearing light blue jeans, white hoody, white trainers and riding a black mountain bike.

Detective Constable David Read from Rochdale CID said: "The victim has been left traumatised by her ordeal but has shown bravery in reporting the incident and helping us put together a detailed description of the man.

"I would urge anyone in the area who saw the incident or recognise the description to contact us.

“I would also ask people to be with a group of friends if they have to walk in remote areas, never be on your own. Be aware of your surroundings and be aware of other people who may be in the area.”

Anyone with information should phone police on 0161 856 4622 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111