A manhunt is underway after a 90-year-old woman was dragged off a Rochdale street and raped on Tuesday morning.
The attack occurred at around 6.45am when the victim left her home and walked along Spotland Road.
A man, described only as white at this stage, knocked the victim unconscious in the ‘horrific’ attack.
Superintendent Alistair Mallen, based at Rochdale, said: “I am sure the entire community will share our revulsion at this.
“The victim has been through a horrific ordeal and we are all hoping she can make a full recovery.
“She is now being supported by experienced officers and we are doing everything possible to reassure her that we will catch the man responsible.”
The lady felt a hand go over her mouth and was dragged backwards off the street.
She lost consciousness before later waking on the floor and realising she had been raped.
The victim then walked to her butchers and raised the alarm.
He added: “I now want people, including the criminal fraternity, to imagine if that had been your mum or grandma.
“I want to harness these feelings and use them to help the police do their job – catch this man and put him before the courts.”
Police are urging anyone who may have seen the offender or the victim, who was white and was walking down Spotland Road before 7am wearing a white summer dress with a floral print and a cardigan.
Superintendent Mallen said: “This happened in a busy part of town at the start of a normal working day.
“It may not have struck you as significant at the time, but please, if you saw anything or anyone that you think could be relevant then please call the police.”
Absolutely sickened by news that a 90-year old has been raped in Rochdale. Community must help the police find the perpetrator ASAP
— Simon Danczuk (@SimonDanczuk) June 25, 2014
Someone will know something that can help the police. They must search their conscience & come forward. This is the worst possible crime
— Simon Danczuk (@SimonDanczuk) June 25, 2014
Anyone with information is asked to call police in Rochdale on 0161 856 8470/8420 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Image courtesy of Ray Forster, with thanks
