Police are investigating a “horrific” rape of a 22-year-old man in Bolton town centre.
The victim was approached by a man near Nelson Square, in an area packed with pubs and bars, on Sunday evening around 3am.
The pair then walked to nearby Back Mawdsley Street, where the victim was raped, Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said.
No arrests have yet been made and the police are appealing for anyone with information about the attack to come forward.
Detective Sergeant Dominic Beaver, of GMP’s Bolton division, said: "This is a shocking and horrific incident and the victim is currently receiving support from specialist officers.
"We are following all lines of enquiry to identify the individual responsible and ensure he is brought to justice. We have increased patrols in the area whilst our enquiries are ongoing.
"If anyone was in the area at the time and saw anything suspicious or has any information about this rape, please do not hesitate to contact police as soon as possible."
Anyone who wants to share information with the police can contact GMP on on 0161 856 5757, quoting incident number 568 of 7/11/21.
Reports can also be made anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
