A WOMAN was reportedly sexually assaulted in the early hours of this morning (Monday, December 14).

Police have launched an investigation after a woman reported she was sexually assaulted in Haydock shortly before 3am.

The sexual assault is reported to have happened at around 2.55am in the Penny Lane area.

An investigation is underway and house-to-house, CCTV and forensic enquiries are being carried out.

Residents have reported seeing a police cordon in place by a grass area on Penny Lane, close to Vista Road.

Police say the woman is currently being supported by specially trained officers.

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Detective Sergeant Dave Glover said: “The investigation is in the very early stages but we are carrying out extensive enquiries to establish what has happened.

“I would appeal to anyone who was in the area around Penny Lane around 3am today to contact us.

“While the roads may have been quieter at that time, we know this road is a main route very close to the East Lancs Road and Junction 23 of the M6.

“I would ask for any taxi or delivery driver who may have been in the area and has a dashcam to contact us as they may have information which is vital to our enquiries.”

  • Anyone with information is asked to DM @MerPolCC or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.