A MASKED man sexually assaulted a 13-year-old schoolgirl before trying to abduct her.

The girl was walking along Ferns Grove, Heaton, yesterday morning when she was targeted by the man, who was wearing a balaclava.

As he tried to bundle her into his car, she managed to escape his grip and raised the alarm when she got to Bolton School, where she is a pupil.

Last night, police urged pupils to walk in groups and stick to well-lit areas.

The school’s headteacher has also sent letters to parents.

Det Con Stephanie Parker said: “I would like to reassure parents and the local community that this is being treated as an isolated incident.”

The girl was alone and late for school when the incident happened at 9am.

She felt a tap on the shoulder and turned around to see a man wearing a black balaclava, who then grabbed hold of her and sexually assaulted her.

He then seized her by the shoulder and pulled her towards his car, saying “get in”.

The terrified girl managed to struggle free and ran to Bolton School, where she reported the attack to a teacher.

It is thought the girl ran past a jogger shortly after the attack and police are appealing for him to contact them as he may have vital information.

Det Con Parker said: “We would ask that people, particularly young girls, follow a few simple, safety tips such as walking in groups and sticking to well-lit areas, avoiding shortcuts.”

The girl was interviewed by specially-trained officers yesterday afternoon.

Headteacher Gill Richards said: “We are taking this incident very seriously and have written to all the girls’ parents.”

One local resident said she heard a car wheel spinning at about 8.30am, and looked outside to see a dark car speeding away.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Public Protection Investigation Unit on 0161 8567948, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.