A 12-year-old girl has been sexually assaulted while in woods. 

She was walking in the woods at the back of Rivington and Blackrod High School, near Roynton Road, at about 5pm on Wednesday, September 9. 

She was approached and grabbed by a man who sexually assaulted her before she managed to break free.

The victim ran out onto Green Lane before returning home.

The man is described as being white, in his mid 20s, of medium build, 5ft 9in, with stubble, wore a black hooded top, black belt and jeans.

Det Insp Charlotte Cadden said: “This has been a really traumatic incident for the young victim and we would appeal to anyone who may have seen a man fitting the description to call us.

“Understandably, the community will be concerned by what has happened but I can reassure them we have increased patrols in the area and are determined to find out who is responsible.

“I would urge young people to remain vigilant about their personal safety at this time and stay with friends if they walking around this area of Rivington.”
 
Anyone with information should phone police on 0161 856 5761 or the independent charity, Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.