A MOTHER, who says she was molested while shopping in a Bradford store, has criticised police and the shop chain for delays in releasing CCTV footage of the incident.

The 30-year-old mum complained she had been sexually assaulted by a man in the Costcutter store, in Thornton Road, Fairweather Green, shortly after 9pm on Tuesday, March 31.

The woman, who cannot be identified, said she was left petrified and in tears by the assault.

She immediately complained to the shop assistant and reported the incident to police.

But the woman, of Bradford, said that CCTV from the shop had not been passed to police a week after the incident and she was afraid the evidence would be lost.

She told the Telegraph & Argus: "I am really upset and angry. I didn't sleep for three days after the incident, but I don't think it is being taken seriously. They seem to think 'it is only a kiss,' but it could have been a lot worse."

The victim had called at the shop to buy milk when she was approached by the man.

"He leaned towards me and I thought he was going to say something. I moved my head away but he kissed me on the cheek. I stepped back but he grabbed my arms and went to kiss my face.

"I couldn't believe what was happening. I pushed him away. I went to the cashier and reported it. The man was still there. He had a big grin on his face. He seemed to think it was okay."

She made a statement to police that evening.

She said: "They said they would phone within 24 hours to let me know what was going on. They said they would be in touch every step of the way. But they haven't, and the CCTV was still at the shop a week later.

"I contacted Costcutter's customer service department and they said the area manager would be in contact. But I have heard nothing."

Police confirmed they are investigating a sexual assault.

The suspect is an Asian man, in his mid 50s, medium build, with stubble, and wearing a green and black hat.

Sergeant Jane Slater, of the Bradford West Area Neighbourhood Team, said: "Officers have now viewed the CCTV footage of this incident and identified a suspect.

"Inquiries are ongoing to locate this man and speak to him about what happened."

A spokesman for Costcutter said: "We are aware of the serious allegations that have been made, and are fully co-operating."

Anyone with information about the incident has been urged to contact Sgt Slater on 101.