Women stabbed in 'violent' attacks

Two women - aged 61 and 71 - have been stabbed in Oldham, in what police have described as 'violent and motiveless attacks'.

A 71-year-old woman was taken to hospital with serious injuries after she was attacked and stabbed by a man on Stoneleigh Street in Derker, at around 6pm on Wednesday night (20 November). 

Her injuries are not believed to be life threatening.

The offender was described as a white man, around 5ft 7inches, aged over 18, dressed in all black clothing and wearing a black hip length jacket that had a hood covering his chin.

Police believe the incident was linked with another attack, which happened around half a mile away earlier in the month - details of which have only just been released. 

A woman was stabbed on Longfield Crescent at around 6.30pm on Friday, November 1. 

The 61-year-old was taken to hospital with serious injuries and has since been released, with her injuries not believed to be life threatening. 

Detective Chief Inspector James Faulkner, of the Oldham District, said: "These were violent and motiveless attacks that has left two vulnerable women fearing for their safety.

"These are clearly two very serious incidents and I am particularly keen to speak to anyone that was on or around Stoneleigh Street and Longfield Crescent at the time of the attacks and may have heard or seen anything unusual or suspicious.

"I would also like to reassure the community that we are doing all we can to protect residents and find those responsible.  I have a dedicated team of detectives investigating them and you will see extra patrols in these areas over the coming days and weeks. Please stay vigilant and report anything suspicious to the police." 

There have been no arrests made so far. 

Anybody with information should contact police on 0161 856 9080, quoting incident number 2062 of 20/10/2019, or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.