A blind man was attacked as he walked around his new neighbourhood with his guide dog.

Police have described the attack as cowardly and the Royal National Insitute for the Blind has called for anyone who saw what happened in Shoreham town centre to report it.

The 60-year-old man, who has just moved to the area, was walking with his guide dog to try to get used to his new neighbourhood.

He was set upon by a man who grabbed him about the chest and hurled abuse in his face.

The victim was pushed and thrown around as the man shouted and swore.

It is thought he was complaining about the behaviour of the dog.

Police said he was left very shaken and upset by the attack.

His sight problems mean he has been unable to give a description of the man who attacked him at about 12.15pm on Thursday.

Police community support officer Rosemary Hill said: “He is new to the Shoreham area and is only just building up his confidence to walk along streets other than the one on which he lives.

“The attack was completely unprovoked and has caused this gentleman a great deal of distress.”

Officers are examining CCTV from the area, which is just off Shoreham’s High Street, and footage from security cameras in shops and businesses.

According to Sussex Police’s latest released figures, the St Mary’s council ward which includes the spot where the attack happened has an above average rate of violent crime when compared with the county as a whole.

There were 25 incidents between January and March this year.

Inspector Jason Wilson said: “This is an unusual and particularly cowardly assault.

“It is being investigated thoroughly.

“We’d appeal to any witnesses in this relatively busy area to make themselves known to police.”

A spokesperson for the RNIB said: "We would urge anyone who has information regarding this appalling attack to contact the police as soon as possible.

“We hope the perpetrator of what appears to be a cowardly assault is apprehended as soon as possible."

Anyone with information is asked to call Shoreham CID on 0845 6070999 quoting serial number 699 of June 11 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.