A MAN suffered severe swelling and bruising to one eye and a cut to his face in an unprovoked attack while walking home with a friend.

The 65-year-old had been on a meal out with his 69-year-old companion when the attacker struck in Third Avenue, Hove.

Shortly before the attack on Thursday, August 27, between 9.30pm and 9.45pm, the victim's friend was involved in an altercation with the driver of a white estate car while crossing nearby Church Road.

An unknown passer-by approached the victim and his friend after the attack to check on their welfare.

Police do not know who the person was or what they saw but want them to come forward.

PC Matt Smith said: "This was an unprovoked and nasty attack whereby the victim was knocked to the ground. It has caused him a great deal of distress.

"I believe there may have been other people around due to it being a nice evening and the number of restaurants in this location. If you have seen anything, whether it was the car or the attack itself, then please get in touch."

Anyone who saw the incident should email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk or call 101, quoting serial 334 of August 28.

Alternatively, they can call the independent charity Crimestoppers without having to leave their name on 0800 555 111.