AN investigation has been launched after a teenage girl was sexually assaulted in Radcliffe last week.

Sometime between 8.30pm and 9pm on Wednesday, January 6, the 14-year-old girl was walking along Stand Lane when she was approached from behind and sexually assaulted.

She was later walked home by a good samaritan, who police are now appealing to come forward with any information they may have.

Officers have reported that, after the assault, the victim’s attacker pushed her to the ground, causing her to bang her head. He then ran off in the direction of Radcliffe town centre.

Police are now looking to speak to another man who found the girl shortly after the attack and walked her home. They believe he may have "vital" information that could aid the investigation.

Detective Sergeant David Sinclair said: “I know an incident like this can cause a lot of concern but I would like to stress that this was an isolated incident and I would like to assure everybody that a full investigation has been launched. We have got specially trained officers continuing to provide support to the victim.

“We have made an arrest but the investigation continues and I would like to appeal to a male who found the victim in a distressed state on Stand Lane shortly after the incident to contact us as we believe he may be able to provide vital information for our investigation. We understand he walked the victim back towards her home address but didn’t leave his details.”

Anybody with information should contact police on 101, quoting crime reference number 003739F/16, or call the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

A 16-year-old boy has been arrested and bailed in connection with the incident, pending further enquiries.