A manhunt has been launched after a suspected sex attacker tried to rape a 10-year-old girl.

The child was targeted after separating from her friends in Openshaw area of Manchester shortly after 2pm yesterday.

The young girl managed to escape and alert a dog-walker, Greater Manchester Police said.

Greater Manchester Police are hunting a suspected sex attacker who tried to rape a 10-year-old girl near Kincraig Close in Openshaw, Manchester

Patrols have been stepped up in the area near Kincraig Close in Openshaw (shown on map)

Patrols have been stepped up in the area as officers search for the attacker, described as a man in his 20s, of Asian appearance, with a slim build and wearing a dark coat.

Detective Chief Inspector James Riley said: 'What happened to this young girl is understandably very upsetting and specially trained officers will continue to support her in any way they can.

'Parents and neighbours will be concerned and we have stepped up our visible police patrols throughout the coming days and nights. If you do have any worries then please feel free to approach them and they will try and assist.

Police said the man was in his 20s, of Asian appearance, with a slim build and wearing a dark coat

Greater Manchester Police announced they were investigating the attack this afternoon

'I also want to stress that we are doing everything in our power to find the man responsible for this and a dedicated team of detectives are working round the clock.

'So far we have a number of witnesses who are being extremely helpful, while we will also be continuing to knock on doors in the area to see if anyone else saw anything suspicious.

'Extensive CCTV is being examined and I can confirm that we haven't received any other reports of this nature in the area over the weekend.

'With the help of this brave girl and the community we have a good description of the attacker and if anyone recognises it or recalls seeing a man matching that description in the area, then please call us.'

Anyone with any information should call detectives on 0161 856 1146. Alternatively, information can be passed on anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.