Women living in Manchester city centre are living in fear as police continue to hunt the rapist behind a horrific sex attack.

The victim, aged 22, was walking down Liverpool Road towards Water Street in the Castlefield area when she was approached by a man under the railway bridge.

He grabbed her as she walked past him then raped her, police said.

The woman managed to fight the attacker off and then flag down a taxi driver as the man fled the scene.

The taxi driver who helped the victim also drove around looking for the rapist but did not find him.

Police have issued a detailed description of the attacker who had a distinctive appearance.

He is described as black, mid to late 20s, around 5ft 10in tall, of slim build with shoulder-length dreadlocks which were parted to one side and swept over his head.

It is believed he was wearing a thick, black, waist-length coat, dark grey jogging bottoms and a dark top underneath and had a French accent.

City centre Inspector Jon Middleton made a heartfelt plea for information from the public today posting a link to the M.E.N's story on the attack with the message: "We are desperate to catch this individual so please share this appeal like you've never shared before.

"Think of people you might know who live, work or visit the city. Share with any businesses in the area, people who might have been around early on Sunday morning. Help us protect you the public.

"Any piece of information, no matter how trivial it might seem, could be pivotal."

The appalling crime has sent shockwaves through the Castlefield community, where many are already living in fear of walking to and from their homes due to a spate of muggings.

Police have put on extra patrols and councillors are working with local landowners to improve lighting.

A public meeting is also due to be held at Dukes 92 next Monday evening.

No arrests have yet been made and women who live in the area are now taking extra safety measures.

A 'buddy' scheme run via Whatsapp was set up by members of the Castlefield Forum Facebook group in recent months so that people can find someone to walk with them on their commute.

Others have spoken of changing their route home or even using taxis instead of travelling on foot.

One woman who lives in Castlefield told the M.EN: "I’m shocked that it happened.

"I have got used to muggings happening (although not ok), but this was something else.

"I am avoiding going places. I won’t walk to Regent Retail without going with a friend. I walk down Deansgate instead of cutting through St Johns park after 8pm.

"I usually walk with a friend back from the gym but if not, I just stick to the main roads.

"I have also got my location on permanent share with two of my neighbours. It’s a terrible thing that has happened and I’m hoping it’s a one off. I can’t help feeling terrible for the victim.

"I have definitely had my eyes peeled for the attacker. The description was very detailed."

Councillor William Jeavons told the M.E.N people "are right to be worried".

"It is concerning," he said.

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"We have been calling for an increase in resources and we have had meetings with police.

"We have more coming up.

"We have asked Greater Manchester Police for more patrols in both the daytime and the nighttime and they have sent them.

"We obviously hope police get to the bottom of this [attack]."

Detective Inspector Jen Tattersall from GMP’s City of Manchester Team said: “This was a terrifying attack on a young woman by a complete stranger.

“We have a good description of the man and are hoping someone will recognise him and get in touch. We are also keen to speak to the taxi driver who saw the victim after the incident occurred.

“The woman is being supported through this difficult time by our specialist officers. I would like to commend her for her bravery so far.

“Our officers are doing everything they can to find the person responsible.”

The Castlefield Forum said in a statement: "Carol Middleton, Chair of the Castlefield Forum, along with other forum members, has been closely liaising with all relevant agencies and the forum will continue to use its profile and social media presence as a vehicle to disseminate information.

"Our primary concern is the safety of all residents, businesses and visitors to the area and we would encourage people to take precautionary measures such as walking with friends, being aware of your surroundings, keeping mobile phones out of view, removing headphones and sticking to well lit/busy areas.”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Police on 0161 856 64409, alternatively call Police on 101 quoting the reference number 610 of 13/01/18 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.b