A YOUNG woman was dragged into a ginnel in Atherton and indecently assaulted, police have revealed.

The 21-year-old was pulled into the passageway from behind as she walked along Market Street just after midnight last Friday.

She was indecently assaulted but managed to elbow her attacker and he ran off.

Today, police warned women to take care when walking in badly lit areas -- and urged anyone with information to come forward.

Det Con Susan Sullivan, from Leigh CID, said: "She has been left extremely shaken and showed a great deal of bravery in fighting off her attacker.

"I would advise women walking on their own to stick to well lit areas and to be aware of their surroundings."

The woman has not been identified.

The man is described as around 6ft 2in tall, wearing dark clothing, a woollen hat and thick ski-type gloves.

Anyone with information should call Leigh CID on 0161 856 7254 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.