AN ELDERLY pensioner was struck to the floor from behind in an unprovoked attack.

The 77-year-old man fell face-first onto the pavement after the assault in Kennedy Avenue, East Grinstead on Wednesday.

He had to be taken to hospital for treatment and had suffered injuries to his face. Since then he has been discharged from hospital.

Police are appealing for witnesses and believe a skinny white man seen in a tracksuit in the area may be able to help.

Detective Inspector Colin Garman said: “This was a violent and seemingly unprovoked attack on an elderly man. Thankfully he is okay, 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.

“There is currently nothing to suggest this incident is linked to two other attacks on elderly men in East Grinstead in recent months.

“But I’d like to reassure the community we are doing all we can to investigate all these matters and find those responsible for them.”

Anyone who witnessed the assault, or who may have any other information, is asked to contact Sussex Police online or call 101 quoting 1562 of 08/09.

Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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