Canal sex attacker chased off by 'Good Samaritan'

Police say the man who helped the 47-year-old woman could hold vital information to bring the offender to justice.

The incident happened between noon and 1pm on Saturday, May 15, at the Dearne and Dove Canal between Swinton and Mexborough.

The attacker is said to have grabbed and sexually assaulted the woman before being interrupted by the passer-by.

PC Sam Cross said: “I am keen to identify the Good Samaritan who helped the woman, as he later returned and kindly gave the victim a lift home. He could provide key information to assist our investigation.

“The suspect is described as being white and wearing a black hoodie. If you witnessed anyone acting suspiciously along the canal path on Saturday, or you are the good Samaritan we are trying to trace, please get in touch.

“Thankfully, the woman wasn’t physically injured but was left shaken by this incident. We’d really appreciate any assistance to help progress our inquiry.”

Call 101 quoting incident 248 of May 16.