A 75-year-old man suffered a fractures to his face and collarbone in an unprovoked attack by a cyclist.

The man was walking along Brassey Avenue, Eastbourne, at about 8.30pm on Monday when he spoke with a cyclist riding on the pavement behind him.

Detective Sergeant John Steven said: "The cyclist, a light grey-haired man believed to be in his 50s and possibly wearing a red top, threatened the man then punched him repeatedly in the face causing him to fall to the ground. The attacker then rode off towards Freeman Avenue.

"This was a really nasty attack that has left the elderly man with serious injuries, bruises and swelling. He was taken for treatment at hospital, where the extent of his injuries were discovered.

"The assault happened on a busy stretch of road and I am appealing to anyone who may have seen this attack to contact police on 101, email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."