Pensioner sexually assaulted

Police in Middleton are hunting a man who claimed to be a tree cutter, only to sexually assault a 75-year-old frail woman in her own home.

The woman, who is extremely vulnerable, in poor health suffering from a number of conditions and almost completely house-bound, was sexually assaulted by the man at her home on Tintern Avenue.

It happened at about 1pm on 14 December 2013.

The offender knocked on the door of the woman's warden-controlled bungalow and claimed he was cutting down trees.

The woman felt sorry for this man and innocently thought he was trying to earn money for Christmas. Feeling charitable, she offered him the chance to help her build some furniture for a small fee and invited him into her home.

However, while inside the bungalow he sexually assaulted her.

He is described as being white, not very tall, in his 30s or 40s and with a round face and stocky build. He was wearing either a black coat with red writing or vice versa and had 'maintenance' or words to that effect on his jacket.

Police are now appealing to anyone with information to come forward.

Detective Constable Dan Daly said: "To sexually assault such an obviously frail and vulnerable pensioner in the sanctity of her own home is completely unforgivable.

"What makes this attack even more disturbing is that the woman is such a kind-natured soul that she thought she was helping someone out over Christmas by putting a few extra quid his way. To therefore have that good nature and trust abused by this man is appalling and we need to find him.

"I have no doubt this will cause outrage and upset in this community and I would ask that people channel those feeling and help us find the offender.

"If you yourself had a call from someone over the Christmas period asking if he could cut down your trees, then you may have spoken to the same offender and if so we need to speak to you because you could have vital information that will help us find him.

"Alternatively, if you have any information or have overheard something then please call us because what might seem trivial to you could be crucial to us.

"I do not want people living in this area to be fearful and I want to stress we will pursue every line of inquiry not only to find this man but to ensure people in this area feel safe. If you do have any concerns then do not hesitate to approach your local officer."

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.