A 28-year-old man has since been arrested on suspicion of sexual assault and remains in custody for questioning as police investigate a series od sexual assaults along the Bridgewater Canal in Sale.
Between Tuesday 2 March and Sunday 7 March officers received seven separate reports of sexual assaults centred on canal and river towpaths in the Trafford area.
In each report, the offender has approached the victim from behind on a mountain bike, before touching them inappropriately whilst riding past.
The incidents reported are:-
6pm on 2 March on the Bridgewater Canal, Sale.
6.20pm on 3 March on Bridgewater Canal, Sale.
9.20am on 6 March on Bridgewater Canal, Sale.
4.50pm on 6 March on Bridgewater Way, Old Trafford.
6.20pm on 6 March on Little Ees Lane, Sale.
6.45pm on 6 March on River Mersey. Specific location currently unknown.
10.42am on 7 March on Bridgewater Canal, Timperley.
Detective Inspector Dave Jones GMP’s Trafford District said: “Thankfully no injuries were reported following these incidents but events like this can cause considerable distress and upset for those involved. We understand the concern and worry this can also cause for the wider community and I want to reassure you we are taking these reports incredibly seriously and currently have increased police patrols in the area.
“Although we currently have one man in custody for questioning our investigation continues and we would appeal to anyone who may have any concerns or information relating to these incidents to come forward and assist police with our enquiries.
“We’d also like to take this opportunity to appeal to anyone else who feels they may have also been subject to a similar assault to please come forward and speak with police. Your report or concerns will be treated with the utmost seriousness and sensitivity and there are also a range of specialist support services available across Greater Manchester.”
