AN Irishman was assaulted on a cycle track as he walked to the airport to catch a flight home.

The 52-year-old man was attacked on the cycle track by the A23, near Gatwick.

He suffered head and shoulder injuries from being struck with an object from behind, facial injuries from being punched and bruising from being kicked on the ground.

The victim is a contractor working near the airport and was flying home to see his family.

A cyclist was seen to pass the victim just after the attack, travelling towards Gatwick's south terminal just before the cycle track passes under the terminal.

PC Steve Cranswick said: “This appears to be a random and unprovoked attack on an innocent man on his way home to see his family.

“I would urge anyone who has information, especially the cyclist who may have seen the attacker, to contact us as a matter of urgency.”

Anyone with information about the attack, which took place between 8.15pm and 9.30pm on Saturday, July 19, can call 101 quoting serial 113 of 20/07, email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk or call independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111