A TEENAGE girl was groped in daylight as she walked to Nelson and Colne College.

Police have appealed for witnesses to the attack on the student at 11:45am on Tuesday January 15 as she walked to her lectures.

The attack took place at the junction of Fleet Street and Scotland Road after the student was followed for 20 minutes.

Her attacker repeatedly asked for her mobile number and stated that he "was going to kiss her", police said.

He ran his hand around her body and made several attempts to run his hand up her skirt along her thigh.

The victim left the youth standing in the street as she ran off and spoke with a passing local lady.

The attacker is described as an Asian male, aged 16-18, 5ft 5in inches tall and of slim build.

He had short dark hair and a lazy left eye which was slightly bloodshot and wore a dark jacket, blue jeans and light coloured trainers.

Detective Constable Simon Robinson said: "Fortunately the opportunity to run off before the attack could escalate presented itself.

"Leaving the young girl distressed about the incident, but nothing more.

"This kind of incident is rare and we are treating this seriously.

"He spoke with an East Lancashire Asian Accent."

Anyone who witnessed the attack or has any information should contact DC Simon Robinson at Nelson CID on 01282 472651 or alternatively Crimestoppers on Freephone 0800 555 111.