Detectives are hunting a tattooed sex attacker who subjected an 11-year-old girl to a frightening assault as she walked home from school.

Police are keen to speak to anyone who can identify the man who attacked the terrified girl in Bingley while she was returning home from Bingley Grammar School.

The pupil was in Crownest Road in the Ferncliffe area when the attacker pounced on her, said Detective Inspector John Mountain, of Keighley CID.

He said: "The young girl was approached from behind by the male suspect and subjected to a sexual assault.

"She did not suffer physical injuries, but she is very badly shaken and is very concerned about the incident. This was a very frightening experience for her."

Det Insp Mountain said he hoped the public would respond to a strong' description of the attacker.

He is calling for anyone in the area at about 3.15pm to 3.30pm on Tuesday to get in touch.

The suspect is described as a white male, aged 50 to 60 years, of a dirty appearance and with a red and blue tattoo on his neck.

He was wearing gold chains on his neck, a black coat with red lining around the collar, black trousers and boots.

He was said to have long fingers with long nails.

"Although the attack lasted only a few seconds, it is possible the suspect has followed the victim for a period or waited for her," said Det Insp Mountain.

"I would encourage anyone in the area at the time to contact the police.

"We have a good, detailed description of the suspect which I hope people will respond to.

"Anyone who may know this individual is strongly urged to get in touch as a matter of urgency.

"This is a very unfortunate incident for the young person affected, but fortunately such occurrences are rare.

"The main priority is for people to be vigilant and to help the police with their inquiries in any way possible to allow us to identify the suspect."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Keighley CID on (01535) 617085 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.