Police have stepped up patrols in part of Bradford after a 16-year-old girl was reportedly grabbed by an unknown man before running to safety.

The incident took place near to Bowling Cemetery on Rooley Lane, Bradford, at 4.20pm on Friday, January 20.

West Yorkshire Police said the girl was approached by the man before the worrying ordeal unfolded.

The teenager ran away and is now safe and well.

The suspect is described as an Asian male, around 40 years old, 6 foot tall, large build with a scruffy beard. He was wearing clothes that were ripped. He had a green woolly bobble hat with grey trainers and thin gloves.

A police scene was in place into Friday evening - limiting access to the snicket near Asda to Burras Road.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: The incident took place near to Bowling Cemetery on Rooley Lane, Bradford, at 4.20pm on Friday, January 20The incident took place near to Bowling Cemetery on Rooley Lane, Bradford, at 4.20pm on Friday, January 20 (Image: Google Maps)

The scene has since been taken down. 

Detective Inspector Karl Noglik of Bradford CID said: “We are aware that this incident may cause some concern in the community, but incidents of this nature are very rare.

“We are working with our neighbourhood colleagues to provide reassurance to the community, patrols have been stepped up in the area.

“I would appeal to anyone who saw a man of this description or who was in the area at the time to come forward with information.”

Police have urged any witnesses to come forward.

In the latest statement, a spokesperson for the force said: “Police are appealing for witnesses after a suspicious incident near to Bowling Cemetery on Rooley Lane, Bradford.

“At 16.20 yesterday afternoon (20 January) a 16 year old girl reported that she was approached and grabbed by an unknown male.

“The 16 year old ran away and is safe and well.”

Anyone with any information can contact police via 101 or use the live chat facility at www.westyorkshire.police.uk/contactus

The public should quote the crime reference number, 13230037543.

Information can also be given anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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