Man hunted over attempted assault of girl, 12

Detectives investigating the attempted sexual assault of a 12-year-old girl who managed to fight off her attacker have issued an image of a man they want to speak to.

The victim was walking home at 3.45pm on Monday 3 October in Salford when the attacker approached her and grabbed her tie.

The man, who police said was in his early 40s, then tried to sexually assault the schoolgirl but she managed to push him away and run off.

Police are keen to trace anyone who may have been close by the attack spot in Bakewell Road, Peel Green, and have issued an e-fit of the man.

Detective Constable Neil Jones, of Salford CID, said: "Thankfully this young girl was able to fight this man off.

"She pushed him away, ran off and told her mum who immediately called the police. This girl was doing nothing wrong, simply walking home from school.

"I don't want to alarm people in the area - particularly pupils and their parents - but it is important that people take a good look at the e-fit and help us catch this person.

"Patrols have been stepped up in the area.

"Do you recognise this man or have you seen him hanging around?

"Anyone with information should call Salford CID on 0161 856 5351 or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."

PA