Shortly before 11.30pm on Friday 15 May 2015 a woman was trying to flag down a taxi on Church Street when she was approached by a man.
She began to walk with him along Red Lion Street and into an alleyway behind a nearby pub, where he tried to rape her. He was disturbed and ran off onto Turner Street, then High Street before making a loop back to Piccadilly Gardens via Tib Street.
Police are appealing for witnesses and enquiries are ongoing.
The man is described as black, aged between 16 and 22, of slim build and had short, black hair.
Detective Constable Dan Smith of the City Centre division said: “We have launched an investigation to track down a man suspected of attempted rape.”
“Fortunately the woman wasn’t hurt, but she was subjected to a terrifying ordeal and if it wasn’t for the offender being disturbed, the attack could have been much worse.
“It is likely the man was in the city centre prior to the attack, and we know he approached from the Piccadilly Gardens and Market Street area.
“We are looking to speak to the man in the images, so if you recognise him, or if you are the man, I would urge you to come forward.
“I would urge you to contact police as any information you are able to give us may help us in our investigation.”
Anyone with information should phone police on 0161 856 3221 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555 111.
