POLICE have launched an investigation after a woman was raped in Little Lever.

The 53-year-old woman was beside the picnic benches at the end of Boscow Road when she was approached by a man on a bicycle some time between 1pm and 6.30pm on September 21.

He raped the woman before riding away.

Police say it was a shocking attack and are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

Detectives are keen to talk to two women, who were sat near to the benches at the time, as they may be able to assist the investigation.

DC Julie McIntosh of GMP’s Serious Sexual Offences Unit said: “The woman has been left traumatised by the attack.

“People will be understandably concerned and I assure you that we have a dedicated team of detectives working to catch the offender and extra officers on patrol in the area.

“We are offering the woman specialist support at this difficult time and she has shown immense bravery.

“Help and support will always be there for people who want to come forward and report sexual offences or speak to someone about concerns they may have.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101, quoting incident number 1127 of September 27, 2016, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.