A VICIOUS pervert almost strangled a Bolton prostitute after wrapping a nylon stocking around her neck.

The 35-year-old woman fought desperately for her life in a remote lay-by but the fiend only broke off his attack when a passing motorist spotted the struggle.

And today police warned Bolton prostitutes that the man may strike again.

They believe he was prepared to kill.

Detectives believe the computer enhanced artist's impression bears a remarkable likeness to the attacker who they feel lives locally.

The woman was picked up in the "red light" area of Bolton town centre shortly before 10.30pm last Wednesday. She agreed to go with him to his home which he said was in Bromley Cross.

But, on the way he suddenly pulled in to a lay-by in Arthur Lane on the Harwood/Ainsworth boundary.

Police say the man paid the woman to perform a sex act then afterwards produced a stocking from his pocket. He wrapped it around his victim's neck and pulled hard. Within seconds the woman passed out.

She awoke to discover herself upside down on the floor in the passenger side of the car with the man above her on the seat still strangling her. She struggled and grabbed his face scratching him before grabbing hold of his groin.

The attacker, who was in great pain, promised to let her go if she released her grip but the woman continued to struggle.

The man bundled her out of the car when another motorist came to her aid. The attacker raced away in what is believed to be a light blue car.

The woman's rescuer drove her to Bury to raise the alarm. She was treated at Bury General Hospital but later released.

Det Sgt John Fellowes of Astley Bridge CID, said the woman is lucky to be alive.

"This is a man who is intent on achieving his sexual gratification by any means. The woman on this occasion was voluntarily going along with his wishes - he had no reason to nearly kill her.

"He had the stocking in his pocket apparently ready to use it in the way he did. Our worry is this man may strike again."

The attacker called himself "Steve" and said he lived in the Bromley Cross area. He claimed to be divorced with two children he has not seen for some time. He mentioned the name Barbara on several occasions.

He is white, 36-39, about 5ft 8ins tall, medium build with short slightly wavy light coloured hair. He was wearing a navy blue sweatshirt and matching track suit bottoms.

Anyone who recognises the attacker or has information is asked to contact Astley Bridge CID on 0161 856 5748. All calls will be treated in confidence.

The woman's black anorak-style coat with a fur collar is still missing.

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