A man has been charged with sexual assault after someone was reportedly caught masturbating on a tram between Bury and Manchester.

The offence was reported to have happened on Tuesday night before an arrest was made in the city centre.

A man has now been charged with sexual assault against a female and exposure.

A Bury police spokesman said: "Late last night (Tuesday) we received a report of a male masturbating on the Manchester to Bury metrolink service.

"Officers from the City of Manchester attended and located the alleged offender at Deansgate-Castlefield Metrolink where he was arrested.

"The investigation was subsequently handed over to specialist officers from GMP Transport Unit this morning, Wednesday.

"Following some excellent work from the officers involved the Crown Prosecution Service have authorised charges of sexual assault on a female and exposure.

"The male will be remanded into custody before being placed in front of the courts.

"GMP Transport Unit will robustly pursue anybody who thinks that committing crime on Greater Manchester's transport system is acceptable.

"Crime such as these are abhorrent and have no place in society.

"We will not hesitate to ensure that those who commit such offences are held to account and are placed in front of the courts.

"Your safety is our number one priority and we will continue to work tirelessly with our partners to ensure that the transport system remains a safe and pleasant way to travel."