DETECTIVES hunting a suspected serial sex attacker in the Padiham Road area of Burnley have renewed their appeal for witnesses, a week after the latest assault.

The sex fiend who raped a teenager and then attacked a 38-year-old woman who fought him off is thought to have struck again a week ago.

The 22-year-old victim was returning home from a night out and was near William Hill bookmakers at Ightenhill when she was grabbed.

She fought free, possibly injuring the left side of his face. As she ran away a black Mercedes car braked sharply to avoid her.

A group of five lads who may have been celebrating a party as they were holding a balloon with 18 written on it were also seen in the area. But none of them has come forward.

Det Chief Insp Irene Wilson said the attacks happened late at night or in the early hours at weekends.

The attacker smells of body odour, stale cigarettes and alcohol. He may be living rough, perhaps in an empty house.

DCI Wilson said: "He has to have somewhere to go for food and alcohol."

The attacker is described as white, aged 24-30, 5ft 7-9in tall of medium build with short black hair. He was wearing a black jeans, a dark jumper and dark waist-length jacket. He may have facial injuries inflicted by his last two intended victims.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the police incident room on 01282 425001 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111. A £500 reward has been offered for the arrest and conviction of the attacker.

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