POLICE have launched an investigation after a young woman was sexually assaulted close to the town centre in the early hours of Sunday morning.

The 20-year-old was walking into the town centre at around 2am when she came across a man near to the bus stop opposite the Royal Oak Branch on Knutsford Road.

She headed towards the town centre with the man, who said his name was Matthew, via Old Road.

He is then alleged to have committed a serious sexual assault near to the stairs leading to Wilderspool Causeway.

Following the attack, the victim continued up the stairs while the man walked back towards Knutsford Road.

The suspect is described as a white man of stocky build with a beer belly, was 5ft8 tall and aged approximately 32.

He had dark hair styled in short back and sides and had stubble – the man was wearing a white shirt and black pants and was carrying a pizza box.

Detective superintendent Ray Gordge said: “Specialist officers are currently supporting the victim and we are appealing to anyone who may have any information about the incident or anyone who may have observed the victim or the suspect at these locations to contact police.

“We urge anyone to get in touch that may have been in the area on foot or in a car that may have any recorded footage from mobile phones or dash cams.

“We would always advise that people take steps to ensure their safety when out at night such as keeping to well-lit areas and separating from your friends.

“Always ensure you have a safe way to get home such as a pre-booked taxi – never get in a car offering you a lift, no matter how tempting it is.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact Cheshire Police on 101 quoting incident number 134 of December 4 or to call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.