Police have launched an investigation after a woman was sexually assaulted in Chorley.

The 23-year-old woman was walking near Railway Road in the early hours of Sunday morning when she became lost.

According to police, she continued walking and later flagged down a vehicle for assistance.

A police spokesperson said: "The car stopped and the victim got into the car.

"While she was in the car, she was sexually assaulted.

"She was then pushed out of the car and was later found by a member of the public on Ashdown Drive in Clayton-le-Woods at around 2:10am."

The driver has been described as a man, approximately 30-years-old, potentially Middle Eastern in appearance, short and of stocky build.

He had dark curly black hair, a full beard and brown eyes and was softly spoken with no regional accent.

He was wearing a leather jacket and jeans.

The man made two stops while the victim was in the car, where it is believed he delivered food.

Police are now keen to trace anyone with information who may be able to help them with their enquiries.

The spokesperson added: "We are particularly keen to speak to the cyclist (pictured) as a potential key witness.

"The victim spoke to him on Corporation Street, close to the junction with Railway Road before she flagged down the car shortly after midnight.

"If you are the cyclist in the picture, we need to hear from you.

"You’re not in any trouble, but you could provide vital information to our investigation."