A woman was sexually assaulted close to a major road.
The incident is reported to have happened shortly before 3am today (Monday, December 14) on a main route very close to the East Lancs Road and J23 of the M6.
An investigation is underway and house-to-house, CCTV and forensic enquiries are being carried out.
The woman is currently being supported by specially trained officers following the alleged incident in the Penny Lane area of Haydock.
Detective Sergeant Dave Glover said: "The investigation is in the very early stages but we are carrying out extensive enquiries to establish what has happened.
"I would appeal to anyone who was in the area around Penny Lane around 3am today to contact us.
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"While the roads may have been quieter at that time, we know this road is a main route very close to the East Lancs Road and J23 of the M6.
"I would ask for any taxi or delivery driver who may have been in the area and has a dashcam to contact us as they may have information which is vital to our enquiries."
Anyone with information is asked to DM @MerPolCC or @Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
