Woman sexually assaulted

A woman was sexually assaulted in an alleyway in Rochdale.

Her attackers were only scared off when a member of the public saw what was happening and told them to leave the woman alone.

The 17-year-old girl was walking towards a bus stop at about 4.25pm on 18 September 2013 when she was approached by the two Asian offenders who initially made lewd comments towards the girl before they sexually assaulted her in an alleyway of St Mary's Gate, Rochdale. 

A woman then walked into the alleyway, saw what was happening, and told the offenders to leave the young girl alone which they did.

The first offender is described as being Asian, 17 to 18-years-old, about 5ft 10in tall, of a slim build with short black hair and wearing a bright red coat. The other offender was also in his mid teens, about 5ft 5in tall and of a chubby build. He was wearing a black coat.

Police are appealing to anyone with information to come forward.

Detective Sergeant Julie Adams said: "This young woman was extremely distressed to be confronted by two intimidating offenders who initially made lewd and inappropriate comments, before turning physical and sexually assaulting her.

"Thankfully, a member of the public saw what was happening and scared these two cowards off before the offences could escalate.

"We need to find these two individuals and give the young girl some sense of justice which is the only peace of mind she can get following this deeply upsetting ordeal.

"I would appeal to anyone who has information about what happened to come forward and speak to police."

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.