DETECTIVES are appealing for the public’s help after a heavily-pregnant woman was subjected to a sex attack in Burnley.

The 30-year-old victim was molested from behind and did not catch sight of her attacker, police said.

She was left traumatised by her ordeal, around 1pm on Tuesday, in School Lane, close to the old grammar school.

Det Sgt Andy Eddleston is hoping passers-by will be able to help identify the attacker and is appealing for anyone in the School Lane, Church Street, or Bank Parade areas at the time to get in touch.

He said: “The woman did not see her attacker and we don’t even know if it was a man, or a woman.

“But this was a despicable and sickening offence on a heavily- pregnant woman and we are looking for the public’s assistance.”

Police have also released a description of the victim, who was walking towards Church Street, in a bid to jog people’s memories.

She is white and was wearing black leggings and a black waist-length jacket, with a fur-trimmed hood.

She was also holding a white carrier bag. The route is a popular cut-through for motorists heading for the M65, but only busy with pedestrians at peak times.

Anyone with information should call Burnley CID on 01282 472242, or Crimestoppers, in confidence, on 0800 555111.