Woman, 28, assaulted in Blackburn as she walked to work (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Woman, 28, assaulted in Blackburn as she walked to work

10:23am Thursday 31st January 2013 in Blackburn By Jessica Cree, Education reporter

A 28-YEAR-OLD woman was assaulted as she walked to work in Blackburn town centre.

The incident took place at around 7am after she left her home in the Bastwell area of Blackburn.

As she reached Larkhill, on her way into town, she heard a man walking behind her, who grabbed hold of her.

The woman screamed, alerting a passing cyclist, who went to her rescue.

The offender, who is described as stocky, and between 5ft 6ins and 5ft 8ins tall, was wearing dark clothing, including a black jacket, with the hood up.

He ran off into the the estate at Brookhouse.

Inspector Mark Vaughton, from Blackburn CID, said police patrols had been stepped up in the area following the incident, on Tuesday.

He said the assault was being treated as an isolated assault. “The victim is being cared for by officers and her family. Fortunately, although shaken, she was not hurt,” he said.

“An investigation is underway, but I would appeal to anyone who thinks they may have witnessed the incident, or with any information, to come forward.

“I would also be keen to speak with anyone who saw the woman prior to her being assaulted as it is possible she was being followed.”

Anybody with information is urged to call police on 101, Crimestoppers on 0800 55111, or visit Crimestoppers-uk. org