Police launch manhunt after woman sexually assaulted in Morpeth

Police are searching for a man after a woman was attacked on a footpath.

Officers have released a description of a man they would like to trace in connection with the sexual assault, which took place in Morpeth on Thursday. 

The attack took place at 10.30am on a footpath on Staithes Lane, near the Scout Hut.

According to Northumbria Police the victim, a woman in her forties, reported being "befriended" by a male who then sexually assaulted her.

He is described as white, aged between 50 and 60,  with bushy white eyebrows. 

He was of medium build, about 5ft 8” tall and was wearing a blue beanie hat, blue tracksuit and black shoes.

An investigation has been launched and police are urging anyone with information to come forward.  

Witnesses can police on 101 quoting crime reference 141324L/19, or report online at the Northumbria Police website.

You can also report it by calling independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.