A SCHOOLGIRL was dragged into a dark corner of an industrial estate and sexually assaulted.

Police are appealing for witnesses to help catch the culprit before he strikes again.

The attack happened between 9.30pm and 10.15pm last Thursday.

Shortly before, the 15-year-old from Morecambe had been using a phone box on Banbury Road, at the junction with Westgate, before heading towards White Lund Road.

Her attacker grabbed her from behind at the junction.

"She was dragged to the side of the North West Switch Gear factory unit on White Lund industrial estate and seriously sexually assaulted," says investigating officer DI Neil Esseen, of Lancaster CID.

The offender made off along White Lund Road towards Oxcliffe Road afterwards.

His victim returned to the Banbury Road phone box to call her family for help.

She later told police a black 4X4 had driven past while she was at the White Lund Road junction.

DI Esseen says: "The driver may have seen someone walking behind her or grabbing her. He or she could confirm the times, if nothing else."

Police believe the offender may have come from the area of shops opposite Wildings Garage.

He was white, in his early 20s, of medium build and between five feet six and five feet eight inches tall with short, dark brown hair and was unshaven.

The girl says his nose was large and looked swollen as if punched. He smelled of alcohol and slurred his words.

He was wearing a navy Lecoq Sportif jumper with white stripes and black trousers. A thick silver link chain hung around his neck.

Police are making enquiries and studying CCTV. An incident room has been set up.

DI Esseen says the attack hit the girl hard.

"She was previously outgoing and has become very withdrawn. It has had a big impact on her emotionally but she has a lot of support from her family," he told the Citizen.

And he warns others to be vigilant about personal safety.

"There are always concerns someone will re-offend. It is important we find him as soon as possible."

Anyone with information should contact Lancaster CID on 01524-596641 or 63333 or Crimestoppers on 0800-555111.