Police said the attack happened near Knighton Lane East
A man is being sought by police following a serious sexual assault on a young boy in Leicester.
The boy, whose age has not been released, was attacked near to a footbridge off Knighton Lane East between 15:30 and 16:00 BST on Tuesday.
He was left physically injured and "deeply distressed" by the attack.
Detectives said the man they are seeking is described as being dark skinned, tall, slim and aged in his late teens or early 20s.
'Detailed search'
The boy is being supported by specially trained officers.
Det Insp Tony Yarwood said: "This was a very serious assault and it is clearly extremely important that the offender is identified as quickly as possible.
"I want to hear from anyone who may have been in the area at the time and saw either the boy or a person fitting this description.
"Equally if you think you saw something suspicious in the area around that time on Tuesday, get in touch."
Detectives have been conducting a detailed search of the scene and extra officers have been put on patrol in the area to reassure residents.
Parents of children at the two nearby schools have been informed and children have been warned to avoid walking to and from school alone.
Short cuts should be avoided through isolated areas including the Mud Dumps and the nature reserve, officers said.
