Appeal following attempted rape of a woman in Harpurhey

Detectives are appealing for information following the attempted rape of a woman in Harpurhey.

The assault on the woman occurred near Rudd Street in Harpurhey, Manchester, some time between 2:30pm and 3pm on Friday 3 January.

The woman, in her 50s, was walking down a pathway which backs onto Rudd Street when she was approached by an unknown male and sexually assaulted. The woman was able to scream and the male fled the scene.

The suspect is described as a black male, approximately 25/26 years old and around 180cm in height. He has dreadlocks, glasses, no facial hair and was wearing a black winter puffer jacket and black trousers.

DI David Collins of GMP North Manchester CID said: “This was an extremely distressing incident for the woman who was simply walking along a path when she was attacked.

“We have launched an investigation into this incident and are making a number of enquiries at pace to locate the person responsible.

“We are now asking the public to come forward with any information that may assist us.

"There will be an increased presence of officers in the area whilst we continue with our investigation and anyone who has any concerns should speak to us.

"Anyone with information or anyone who may have seen anything is asked to call 0161 856 1146 quoting incident number 1650 of 3/1/2025 or report it online at www.gmp.police.uk.

"Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."

Support Available

If you or someone you know has been a victim of rape or sexual assault, we encourage you not to suffer in silence and report it to the police by calling 101 or 999 in an emergency.

You can also report information and crimes on our website (www.gmp.police.uk).

Alternatively, you can report information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

There are also lots of organisations and support agencies available across Greater Manchester and nationally that can help and provide support for you.

For more information and to find the support services available to you, please visit our support pages.

Support for Rape and Sexual Assault:

St. Mary's Sexual Assault Referral Centre - Manchester provides a comprehensive and co-ordinated response to men, women and children who live or have been sexually assaulted within Greater Manchester. They offer forensic medical examinations, practical and emotional support as well as a counselling service for all ages. Services are available on a 24-hour basis and can be accessed by calling 0161 276 6515.

Trafford Rape Crisis and Manchester Rape Crisis are run by women for women who have experienced rape and sexual abuse. They are both confidential and can provide information, support and counselling service run by women for women over 18 who have been raped or sexually abused at any time in their lives.

We Are Survivors Manchester - provides specialist trauma informed support to male victims in Greater Manchester who have experienced sexual abuse, rape, or sexual exploitation. Call 0161 236 2182.