Detectives investigating a serious sexual assault in Church Lawton are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

The incident is believed to have taken place sometime between 12am to 1am on Sunday, March 6th on Liverpool Road West.

The victim, a woman, left a function at Lawton Memorial Hall and was walking in the direction of Kidsgrove when she was approached by an unknown man who spoke to her before sexually assaulting her.

A number of enquiries are ongoing and patrols are being stepped up in the local area.

The victim is currently being supported by specialist officers.

Detective Inspector Vicki Shelton said: "I would like to reassure the local community that incidents such as this are rare and we are doing all we can to establish what has happened and who is responsible.

"We have a number of enquiries underway and patrols have been stepped up in the local area. I would urge anyone who may have concerns to please speak to an officer.

"The offender is described as white, with black hair, which was longer on top, and stubble. At the time of the incident he was wearing blue jeans, black loafers with a triangle shaped tag. It is believed he had a Stoke accent.

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"I am urging anyone who may have been in the area around the time of the incident, may have seen something that didn't look quite right or anyone who knows the man to please come forward.

"I would also appeal to anyone who was driving in the area at the time and possibly has any dash cam footage to get in touch. The same goes for anyone who has CCTV around the area and has not yet spoken to officers."

Anyone with information that could assist with the investigation is asked to contact Cheshire Police quoting IML 1216463 via https://www.cheshire.police.uk/police-forces/cheshire-constabulary/areas/cheshire/about-us/about-us/provide-more-information-about-an-appeal/ or call 101.

If you do not want to speak to an officer directly you can pass on Information anonymously, via Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111 or https://crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information/forms/give-information-anonymously