THIS is the man wanted in connection with a series of sex attacks who has been on the run for a year.

Detectives today released the picture in the hope of tracking down the man after he failed to appear in court charged with a series of serious sexual offences.

Police chiefs have reason to believe David Conquest, 55, formerly of Larch Street, Nelson, could be in the Nelson, Burnley, Bradford or Shipley areas.

They are appealing to the public to help them trace the suspected offender who failed to turn up for a trial over a year ago.

He was arrested on suspicion of indecent assault on a woman in January 2004 and charged with four counts of indecent assault in March last year.

However, police say he failed to turn up at Burnley Crown Court for trial in September 2004 and a warrant was issued for his arrest.

Police are urging the public to report any sightings as soon as possible.

Detective Constable Paul Whitehead said: "Conquest has been wanted for more than a year and we are very keen to trace him and bring him to trial.

"The offences he was charged with are very serious and the sooner we are able to put him back before the court the better.

"We would ask anyone with information about this man's whereabouts to contact us immediately."

Conquest is described as white with blue eyes and light brown receding hair. He is of medium build and wears glasses.

Anyone with any information should contact Lancashire Police on 01772 614444 or contact crimestoppers in confidence on 0800 555 111.