Police are appealing for information after a man was sexually assaulted on the Lancaster Canal.
The 21-year-old male was on the canal tow path, between Aldcliffe and Galgate, between 10.00pm – 11.00pm on Tuesday night (20th July) when he was attacked.
The victim, who was initially wearing a distinctive long trench coat with a satchel and dark jeans, then ran away down the canal and was picked up by barge owners. The police were later alerted.
The victim is now being looked after by a team of specialist officers.
“Despite the heavy rain on that night, the canal tow path is often used by boat owners, dog walkers and joggers,” notes Detective Chief Inspector Neil Esseen of Lancashire Police, “so it’s possible that someone may have seen the victim either before or after the attack and we would urge them to get in touch with us.”
“Some of the victim’s personal property is missing and we would like to hear from anyone who has found any discarded items along the canal,” he added. “We are also interested in any information from people who may have seen someone camping or living rough along the canal bank.”
• Anyone with information is asked to contact Lancaster Police on 01524 63333 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.