POLICE have issued an e-fit of a man wanted in connection with a sexual assault on an 11-year-old girl more than two decades ago.

The young victim was attacked in the Croft area in the summer of 1998, with the incidents having been reported to police earlier this year.

Officers investigating the case have now issued an e-fit of how the man looked 21 years ago in a bid to trace him, or to uncover any information that could aid Cheshire Police’s enquiries.

It is believed that he may have had links to the horse-riding community in the area at the time.

Specially trained officers have been supporting the victim since the offences were reported to the force.

Detective constable Gareth French, who is leading the investigation, said: “We think that the man in the e-fit may have vital information in relation to our investigation into serious sexual offences which took place in the Croft area of Warrington in the summer of 1998.

“We believe that he may have had links to the horse-riding community in Croft or the surrounding areas at the time the offences occurred and urge anyone with any information regarding the man to contact the team here at Warrington Police Station.

“I would also like to appeal directly to the man to get in touch.

“Cheshire Constabulary takes all reports of sexual offences extremely seriously, no matter how long ago incidents took place.

“I encourage anyone who has been a victim, or a witness, of a sexual offence to report it to the police – they should never feel ashamed to talk about what happened.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact Cheshire Police on 101, quoting reference number 19000015907, or to call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.