Care home resident 'sexually assaulted' by stranger who climbed through window

A police investigation is underway after a resident was allegedly sexually assaulted by a stranger who climbed through the window of a ground floor room at a care home in Lytham St Annes.

Police were alerted just before 5 am on 4 August after an unknown male intruder was found by a staff member in a resident's room at New Thursby Nursing Home on Clifton Drive. The attacker then fled via the same window.

The victim is receiving support and family members have been made aware of the situation.

Although enquiries are at an early stage, Lancashire Police have stated ‘that they are looking at a sexual offence’. They have warned the general public to be cautious and are appealing for witnesses to the crime to come forward. The man is described as 'wearing all black clothing'.

Detective Inspector Jamie Lillystone of Blackpool Police said: “This is a very concerning incident, but I would like to reassure people that we are doing everything in our power to find the person responsible, including working with a number of specialist units.

“We have a team of detectives working on the investigation and patrols have been stepped up in the area. We do not want to concern people but would like to take this opportunity to remind people to make sure they secure windows and doors.

“The victim is being cared for by professionals and is being supported by specialist officers. Their family has been made aware.

The police are also appealing for any evidence to help with their inquiries such as CCTV footage or dashcam evidence.

Detective Inspector Lillystone said: “If you have any information at all that could help with our investigation – we need to hear from you. If you were in the area at around 5am and saw anything suspicious or have any CCTV or dashcam footage that may be useful, please contact us. You can call us on 101 quoting log number 350 of 4 August.”