An investigation has been launched by police after two women were attacked and stabbed in “motiveless” attacks just half a mile apart in Greater Manchester. 

The two incidents have been linked by Greater Manchester Police. 

On November 1, a 61-year-old woman was stabbed in Longfield Crescent, Oldham, at 6.30pm, and taken to hospital with serious injuries. Thankfully, her injuries were not life-threatening, and it is believed that she is now recovering at home.

Just weeks later, on Wednesday at about 6pm, a second woman aged 71 was was also attacked and stabbed by a man on Stoneleigh Street, Derker, Oldham, just half a mile from the site of the first incident. 

She was taken to hospital with serious injuries, which are not believed to be life-threatening. 

The offender has been described as a white man, around 5ft 7ins tall, aged over 18 and wearing all-black clothing – including a hip-length jacket with a hood which covered his chin. 

Detective chief inspector James Faulkner, who works across the Oldham District, said: “These were violent and motiveless attacks that have 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.”

Officers have urged anyone with information about the incidents to contact police on 0161 856 9080, quoting incident number 2062 of November 20, or call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.