DETECTIVES probing a serious sex attack in Burnley said today they were following new lines of inquiry.

Det Sgt Derek Jones, leading the investigation into the assault in Cleaver Street at 3.30am on New Year's Day, said members of the public had provided new information.

The 21-year-old victim, a barmaid, was returning from a night out with friends at the pub where she worked when a man wished her a happy New Year before putting his hand over her mouth and attacking her.

She was dragged around the back of the houses on the street, near to the junction with Oban Street, and threatened. She fell to the ground but managed to scream and break free.

DS Jones said: "We have had a few people come forward with information and we are following new lines of inquiry.

"We are treating this incident very seriously and would urge any witness, or anyone with information, to come forward and contact us on Burnley 472144."

The offender was wearing a dark coloured thigh-length coat, jeans and white trainers.