Sex attack on teenage girl in West Yorkshire

The 17-year-old victim was attacked near Lady Ann Road in Batley at about 9.30am yesterday.

Her male attacker grabbed her from behind and assaulted her before running off with her iPhone.

The suspect is described as about 5ft 6in tall and of slim build.

He was wearing a black jacket and had a carrier bag with him.

The incident happened close to Lady Ann Road’s junction with West Street.

Kirklees CID’s Det Insp Andy Leonard said: “The girl is now safe and well at home with her family recovering from her ordeal.

“This was an attack in broad daylight on a girl going about her daily business and we would appeal for witnesses.

“I would especially like to speak to a female pedestrian who is believed to have been on either Lady Ann Road or West Street immediately before the assault and may have seen the suspect.

“I would like to reassure members of the public that this type of assault is rare, and we are determined to identify the attacker.

“There are a number of routes this male could have taken to escape, and anyone who saw a male acting suspiciously in that area, or has information please contact the police on 101.

“Information can also be given anonymously to the independent Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555111.”