A 14-year-old girl had to 'wriggle away' after a man who offered her sweets on her way to school grabbed her, police have said.
The girl was on her way to school at about 8.30am today (Friday, June 25) when she was approached by a man who offered her sweets and then tried to grab hold of her in Skelmersdale.
The girl managed to wriggle free and run home and the police were called.
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She was physically unharmed during the incident and is being supported by specially trained officers.
The incident happened on a path between Eskdale and Southway near to a wooded area.
The offender was described as a man, about 5’9”, wearing all black clothing. This included a hoodie with the hood pulled over his head and black Air Force trainers.
An investigation is under-way and police are appealing for witnesses or anyone with CCTV or dashcam footage.
Detective Insp Vicky Cain, of South CID, said: “This must have been an extremely traumatic incident for this young girl and she is now being supported by specially trained officers.
“We have launched an investigation and we have a team of detectives who are following a number of lines of enquiry.
“I appreciate the concern that this incident may have caused in the area and I would reassure people that we are doing all we can to identify and apprehend the offender.
“We have extra police out and about in the area and I would encourage anyone with information or concerns to speak to an officer.”
Anyone with information should contact police on 101 quoting log 0283 of June 25th. Alternatively call independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
