A MANHUNT has been launched after a schoolgirl was seriously sexually assaulted in Winsford.

The incident is believed to have taken place sometime during the summer holidays, between the last week of July and the first week of August around lunchtime.

The victim, 14, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was about to cross the bridge at the end of The Fairways in Winsford when she was approached by an unknown man. 

He walked her to the nearby embankment then seriously sexually assaulted her, before leaving the scene. 

Det Insp Clare Coleman, from Cheshire Constabulary, said: "The incident took place during the summer holidays however, the police have only very recently been informed about it. 

“We are currently carrying out a number of enquiries and are urging local people to cast their minds back to late July/early August to see if they can remember anything significant, which might assist with the investigation.

"We appreciate that this is asking people to think back over a period of a couple of months but even the smallest detail can be significant when piecing together a case.

"The victim is currently receiving support from both her family and specialist trained officers."

Police are appealing for anyone who has any information about the incident or may have been in the area around that time and remembers seeing anything significant or anyone acting suspiciously to come forward.

The offender is described as between 16-25 years of age, with tanned skin, of slim build and was approximately 5′ 10". 

He was wearing black shorts, white trainers and a black hooded top with a white Adidas logo on the left side of the chest.

Inspector Dave Snasdell, of Winsford Neighbourhood Policing Unit, said: "Incidents like this are rare. 

“However, we would always urge people to follow basic safety advice when out and about – remain vigilant when walking alone especially at night, maintain an awareness of your surroundings and try and stick to well-lit areas. 

“Report any suspicious behaviour to police immediately."

Anyone with any information is urged to call Cheshire Police on 101 quoting incident number 0714344850. Information can also be left anonymously, via Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.