WOMEN have been urged not to walk home alone in Accrington this weekend after a teenager was sexually assaulted on her way home from a pub.

The 18-year-old had been in the Bridge pub in Church Street and was walking on her own on along Union Street when she was approached by a man.

After trying to talk to her he grabbed hold of her arms he tried to kiss her and then sexually assaulted her.

The teenager fought the attacker off and he fled the scene.

The attacker was black, in his 20s, 5ft 7ins tall and of medium build.

He was wearing a dark peaked cap, a dark waist-length jacket with a white T-shirt or jumper underneath, blue denim jeans with small turn-ups and white trainers.

He spoke with a broken English accent.

DC John Wrintmore, from Accrington CID, said the assault, which happened in the early hours of Sunday, October 16, was believed to be an isolated incident, but he warned women to take care in the town centre at night.

He said: "We would urge women to take extra care and if possible avoid walking on their own late at night.

"It is also a good idea to let people know where you are and where you are going.

"This is an isolated incident, but it is one we are taking seriously."

Anyone with information about the assault, or who recognises the description of the offender is asked to contact Accrington CID on 01254 353741 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.