Police are appealing for information after a woman was assaulted in Penwortham, hours after England’s opening World Cup defeat.

She was approached by a man, who appeared to be under the influence of alcohol.

The woman was walking on Stricklands Lane from a side street towards a residential caravan park.

According to Lancashire Police the man made comments towards her regarding the England game and it being her fault England had lost.

He then pushed the woman to the ground, falling on top of her – grabbing her upper arms and waist area.

Voices from a nearby housing estate caused the man to run off.

Sgt Martin Pearson said: “This was an unusual incident and I can’t disregard that there may have been a sexual motive to this man’s actions, which is disturbing. I would appeal for anyone with information, or anyone who recognises the description of this man to get in touch. I’d also encourage the man himself to come forward and speak to us so we can get his account of what happened.”

The incident took place between 4am and 4.50am on Sunday 15 June.

The man is described as white, skinny, with dark greying greasy hair with stubble.

He appeared to be aged in his 30s. He was wearing dirty grey jeans and a black waterproof jacket. He smelt of alcohol and was unsteady on his feet. He had a plastic bag which he kept taking out of his jacket pocket and putting it back in.

Anyone with information should call Lancashire Police on 101.