A TAXI driver is being hunted after a woman was sexually assaulted in the back of a black cab.

The attack happened at 1am on Saturday in a quite cul-de-sac close to Heaton Park.

The victim, in her 30s and from Prestwich, was locked in the back of the vehicle and indecently assaulted before she escaped.

Detectives in Bury have been meeting with taxi company bosses to trace the attacker, who is described as a bearded Asian.

The woman and a friend caught the taxi outside the Chicago Rock Cafe in Haymarket Street, Bury, and told the driver to go to Bury Old Road, Prestwich.

Her companion was dropped off at home and the woman continued the journey. The driver then stopped and climbed into the back with her.

Detective Sergeant Lynn Vernon said: "This is an horrendous assault and we are keen to hear from anyone who saw two women get into a black cab outside the pub.

"Women should share taxis and only get into those with council licence plates and driver identification cards. We believe this vehicle had neither."

The driver was in his late 30s or early 40s, with short black, wavy hair. He was wearing a light coloured shirt. Anyone with any information can call 0161 856 8248.