DETECTIVES have pledged to track down a rapist still at large a month after he brutally raped a 17-year-old girl in a country park at knifepoint.

He struck in Moses Gate Country Park at Farnworth on Tuesday, February 25, at about 2pm.

Det Insp Andy Aston, who is leading the hunt, has warned women to continue to be vigilant because he could strike again.

The teenager, from Farnworth, was grabbed from behind as she walked her dog in the afternoon sunshine. She was dragged into the undergrowth where her attacker ordered her to remove her clothing. He held a 14-inch Gurkha knife to her throat as he raped her.

The girl's 15-minute ordeal came to an end when she managed to escape by wading naked across the River Croal.

Detectives have released an e-fit of the rapist and are delighted with the response to a series of public appeals for information.

But the rapist has still not been caught.

Det Insp Aston said: "I want to reassure people we are as determined as ever to catch this man before he strikes again. We will not stop until he is caught.

"I would appeal again for anyone with information or suspicions to come forward "

Anyone with information about the incident should call 0161 856 5840 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.