POLICE patrols have been stepped up after an alleged rape.
And as a result of the attack the constabulary has issued a reminder to women about keeping safe while out alone.
They set up an inquiry after a report that a woman was raped close to the border with Manchester airport.
The incident was reported to police on Sunday, 23 November, but happened some weeks ago.
A spokesman said: "On Wednesday October 29 between 4pm and 6pm the 25-year old victim was walking along Runger Lane towards the bus stop when the attack happened. As she neared the junction with Thorley Lane a man on a bike approached her and started talking to her. The victim carried on walking and tried to ignore the man but he became aggressive and started threatening her. She pleaded for him to stop and tried to attract the attention of passing motorists, but the man forced her off the main road onto a path that was hidden from view. There he forced her to undress and raped her."
The woman was in shock and made her way home but did not tell anyone what had happened until earlier this week.
The man is described as white, over 6ft tall, muscular and with black hair with a long fringe cropped at the sides. He had long sideburns, which tapered into his chin, a goatee beard and a pencil thin moustache. At the time he was wearing black Adidas jogging top and bottoms and was riding a sports/racer type cycle. He is thought to be in his early 30s and spoke with a local accent.
Detective Inspector Mick Montford, leading the investigation, said: "It’s important that people realise attacks like this are very rare, but that does not reduce the severe impact this has had on this woman, who has been left traumatised. Nor does it stop us treating this very seriously. We are currently investigating exactly what happened but in the meantime it is really important that everyone pays close attention to the safety advice provided, especially as it starts to get dark earlier. There will be extra patrols in the area and we urge you to call us if you have any worries. Please don’t feel like you do not have anywhere to turn with your concerns. We are particularly interested in hearing from you if you recognise the description of this man, or if you were travelling down Runger Lane at this time and noticed the victim calling for help."
Anyone with information is asked to contact police at the airport on 0161 856 0250, Greater Manchester Police’s switchboard on 0161 872 5050 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
Anyone who has been a victim of rape or sexual assault can contact police or 999 in an emergency.
Specially trained officers provide a first class response to victims and help support them through the criminal justice process.
Police reminded women to take extra care when out alone at night.
* Don’t take short cuts. Stick to well lit, well used routes.
* Try to walk in groups wherever possible.
* If you are alone, try to look confident - look like you know where you are going and walk tall.
* Avoid walking next to bushes and buildings, keep as close to the kerb as possible and face oncoming traffic.
* Plan how you are going to get home.
* Be aware of your surroundings.
* Make sure someone knows where you are and what time you are due home.
* Carry a personal attack alarm.
