A man grabbed a jogger and assaulted her before pushing into the canal
Police have launched a hunt for the suspect who struggled with the woman before pushing her into the water.
Manchester Evening News reports that the attack happened around 5.50pm on Tuesday when police were called to the footpath of Rochdale Canal.
Greater Manchester Police say enquiries have established that the victim, a 42-year-old woman, was running on the footpath towards Castleton Train Station when she was approached.
The man grabbed the woman and she tried to get away.
After a struggle between the two, he pushed the woman into the canal before running off towards Gorrels Way.
The woman did not suffer any injuries, but she was left understandably shaken by the incident, say police.
They have issued a description of the man and are continuing their enquiries.
He is described as being white, around 5ft 9ins tall and aged in his 20s.
The man was also said said to be of a medium build and has a short back and sides haircut with scruffy, wavy hair on top.
He was wearing light grey jogging bottoms, a dark coloured Parka jacket with a furry hood and dark trainers with air bubbles on the bottom.
No arrests have been made over the incident and enquiries are ongoing.
Detective Constable Chris Davies, of GMP's Rochdale district, said: "This was a terrifying experience for the woman, who was left feeling violated and scared.
"We will absolutely not tolerate this behaviour in Greater Manchester and are following all available lines of enquiry to locate the offender as soon as possible.
"Extra patrols will be present in the area whilst enquiries are ongoing. If you have any concerns or questions please feel to speak to our officers."
