A PENSIONER was struck over the head and knocked into a stream in an unprovoked attack.

The 81-year-old was waking his dog in Brooklands Park in East Grinstead yesterday at 5.10pm.

He was hit from behind and fell into a stream.

Police say he was able to get to his feet but needed to go to hospital for treatment.

Detective Inspector Cheryl Lawrence said: “This was a violent and seemingly unprovoked attack on an elderly man, who remains in hospital at this time. Thankfully he is ok, however he has been left understandably shaken by this incident.

“The motive for the attack remains unclear at this stage, and our enquiries are ongoing to establish exactly what happened and why.

“I am aware another elderly man was attacked and robbed in East Court on 23 July, and while there is no information to suggest they are linked, I’d like to reassure the community we are doing all we can to investigate these two incidents.”

Police are particularly keen to identify another man who was in the park at the time, who may hold vital information about the attack. He is described as being in his 20s or 30s, about 5’10”, with olive skin, dark hair and a small beard. He wore all dark clothing and was carrying a blue rucksack.

Witnesses or those with information can report it to Sussex Police online or call 101 and quote Operation Coach.