A member of Manchester's transgender community was followed and subject to an unprovoked attack as they walked home from a night out.

The 23-year-old victim was walking along Canal Street in the gay village at around 4:45 am on Saturday September 28 when a man began walking alongside them, near to the Via Fossa bar.

He then grabbed them around the neck, but was disturbed by some of the victim's friends who came to their aid.

The offender, who was mixed race, in his 40s and of medium build, fled the scene.

Police have now released a CCTV image of a suspect and are appealing for anyone who recognises him to come forward.

The victim was dressed in a light coloured dress and high heels and had long blonde hair.

Police Constable Tina Hodgson said: "We urge anyone who may recognise the man pictured to call us.

"This attack could have been far more serious had help not been at hand.

"Since this incident we have used the excellent links that we have with Manchester's Gay Village to pursue this investigation.

"We would also appeal to any other people who may have been victims of a similar incident to get in touch."

Anyone with any information is asked to call police on 0161 856 3071 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.