DETECTIVES are hunting a man who grabbed hold of a teenage girl in Settle.

They say the 16-year-old was grabbed from behind as she walked from Settle Train Station towards Ashfield car park at about 9.15pm on Friday, September 19.

The girl was smoking a cigarette at the time of the incident and stubbed it out on the man’s right hand, causing him to let go of her. The man swore at the girl before walking off.

The girl was unharmed, but was left shaken by the incident.

Officers have been making extensive inquiries in the area and are now asking the public for their help to trace the man involved.

He is described as white, around 5ft 10in to 6ft tall and of medium build. He was wearing a dark-coloured, long-sleeved top and spoke with a local accent.

Detective Sergeant Alan Browne, of Skipton CID, said: “We are treating this incident as a possibly sexually motivated attack and fortunately the victim was able to take action to protect herself.

“It is possible that the man responsible may have a cigarette burn to the back of his right hand or his wrist and I would urge anyone who can help us to identify him to get in touch as soon as possible.

“I would like to reassure the public that this was a very rare and unusual incident and we are doing everything we can to locate the man in question.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact North Yorkshire Police on 101 and ask for Alan Browne or Skipton CID. Alternatively, information can be emailed to alan.browne@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk If you prefer not to give your name, Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555111.

Please quote reference number 12140161393.