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Jogger saves girl from kidnap bid

Bethan Dorsett
19/11/2004

DETECTIVES are hunting a man who grabbed an 11-year-old girl and tried to bundle her into his car.

The attacker pulled up alongside the Royton and Crompton School student while she was waiting for her mother in Blackshaw Lane, near Heyside Lodge, on Monday afternoon.

The girl was only saved when a passing jogger, who spotted the man dragging her towards his silver car, raced to her rescue.

The motorist escaped after a struggle just before the girl's mother arrived and raised the alarm.

Oldham CID are now urging the jogger, who helped the girl out of 'this terrifying situation,' to come forward.

DC John Coleman said: "This was a traumatic ordeal for the young girl to go through.

"She was lucky the jogger was passing by at the time and was able to help her.

"I would appeal to the jogger and anyone else who may have any information about this incident, however small, to contact Oldham CID."

Royton and Crompton School has now alerted all parents and pupils, reminding them to be on their guard.

A spokesman said: "The school has received a report of an alleged attempt by a man to entice a pupil into his car on Monday after school.

"The school has been working closely with the police and the local education authority since the allegation was made."

The offender was white, about 20 years old, 5ft 7ins and of slim build.

He has short brown hair, blue eyes, freckles and stubble.

He and was wearing a black zip-up fleece with an FCUK logo on the front, blue jeans and red and black Nike 'Shock' trainers.

Anyone with information is asked to call 0161 856 9080/8971 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.