POLICE today appealed for witnesses following a serious sexual assault on a 17-year-old girl in Thompson Park Burnley..

The attack took place as the young woman was walking alone near a bridge close to the Queen Victoria pub area of the park at 3.30pm yesterday afternoon.

She was left very distressed and was today being supported by family and friends, say police.

"She was grabbed from behind and subjected to a serious sexual assault," said Det Sgt Peter Simm, leading the hunt for the attacker.

The assailant is described as an Asian male in his late teens to early 20s, between 5ft and 5ft 6in tall, with straight black hair and wearing traditional white Asian clothing.

After the assault he made off into the park, said Det Sgt Simm.

He added: "We are treating this matter very seriously and it is vital that anyone who saw anything should contact us with information on 01282472144."

Det Sgt Simm said he did not wish to alarm the public but advised that people should not walk alone in parks or other secluded areas.

"We want to catch this person as soon as possible," he added.