Manhunt for child rapist with links to Greater Manchester who poses 'real risk to children and women'

An urgent search has been launched to find a convicted child rapist who 'presents a real risk to children and women'.

Stephen Pennington is wanted by Lancashire Police after failing to comply with his licence conditions. The 35-year-old is being recalled to prison and has links to Blackburn, Blackpool and Wigan.

The force said Pennington is a registered sex offender who was jailed in 2009 for the rape of a child. He was jailed again last year for breaches of a sexual harm prevention order and notification requirements, LancsLive reports.

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Pennington is described as white, slim and around 6ft tall. He has short balding dark brown hair. Officers have shared pictures of Pennington this morning (September 30) as part of an appeal.

Det Con Stewart Marshall, from the Mosovo (Management of Sexual or Violent Offenders) Team at West Division, said: "Pennington is a high-risk sex offender who presents a real risk to children and women and I would appeal to anyone who sees him or knows where he could be to get in touch."

If anyone sees Pennington or knows where he is then call 01253 604019 or email mosovowest@lancashire.police.uk. For any immediate sightings please call 999.