A WOMAN bravely fought off a man who sexually assaulted her on a Walney footpath on Christmas Day.

Barrow CID said a woman in her 50s was sexually assaulted on a public footpath off Solway Drive, sometime between 4.30pm and 4.45pm yesterday.

Detectives said a male suspect approached the victim from the side and assaulted her. Police said the victim very bravely fought off the man who then fled the scene. Police have said he was possibly heading towards North Scale.

The suspect is described as being white, in his early 20s, around 5ft 7in and of medium build. He was wearing dark jogging bottoms and a similarly dark-coloured hooded top.

Detectives have said that the victim was very badly shaken and sustained a minor injury. Police said she is receiving appropriate support from specialist officers.

Police said the area is very popular with dog walkers and they are appealing to the members of the public who may have seen anything or the suspect.

Barrow CID said there are extra police resources in the area, inquiries are being made and information from the public given through the appeal is being followed up.

Anyone with information is asked to call PC Bethany Gardner at Barrow police on 101, alternatively Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.