A MAN was punched and kicked to the ground in an unprovoked street attack.

CCTV images of the victim’s suspected attacker have been released by police.

The 43-year-old victim was approached by an unknown man at 12.15am on Sunday, April 26, as he crossed the St James’s Street junction with Chapel Street in Brighton. He was punched in the head, kicked in the leg and, as he fell to the ground, the man continued to beat him.

Officers issued an appeal for witnesses yesterday. [18/5] 

He was hospitalised with a broken ankle, broken finger, swollen jaw and cuts on his face and elbow.

A witness spotted the suspect running towards Charlotte Street but after searching the area police could not find him. He is described as stocky, white, 5ft 8ins tall, with dark hair. He was wearing a light coloured long-sleeved shirt, dark blue jeans and black shoes and had a dark blazer in his hand or over his arm.

Detective constable David Rose said: "This is a serious and unprovoked attack on a man that was walking home after a night out. We would ask that anyone who was in the area at this time or who recognises the suspect to come forward."

Anyone with information should call 101 quoting 31 of 26/04.