A RAPIST who subjected a woman to a terrifying attack a year ago could be living in Blackburn.

Detectives hunting the sex attacker said they have received a tip-off that he may be in East Lancashire.

The rape victim, a 33-year-old mother, was walking home from Liquid nightclub, Lancaster, in the early hours of April 1, last year when she was assaulted.

Police say they are keen to trace someone who called Crimestoppers hotline with information.

Detective Inspector Colin Fish, the man leading the inquiry, said: "The man may have connections in Lancaster and could be travelling between the two towns." Police said they were also keen to talk to a man seen near the Ridge Hotel. He is described as white, 5ft 8ins, of average build with a thin face. He was gaunt in appearance and had a goatee beard.

He had mousy and untidy hair, wide set eyes and small teeth. He was wearing a white, long-sleeved zipped top over a collared and buttoned shirt and brown baggy trousers with a chequered pattern on them. He had a silver ring on the little finger of his left hand.

Anybody with information should contact Lancaster Police on 01524 63333 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.