POLICE are appealing for witnesses after an assault in Dorchester left a man needing surgery.

Detectives are appealing for witnesses and anyone with information to come forward after the attack, which happened sometime between 4pm and 6pm on Thursday, July 31 in the Borough Gardens.

A 51-year-old local man was assaulted by an unknown man at the toilets near to the café and children’s play area. The victim suffered significant facial injuries which required surgery at hospital.

The offender has been described as white, in his late teens to early twenties, of medium build and with fair hair.

Detective Constable Andy Marsh, of Western CID, said: “The park would have been busy at the time and I would like to hear from anyone who may have seen the assault or a verbal altercation at that location at the time.

“I would urge witnesses and anyone with information to contact Dorset Police in confidence.”

Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police in confidence on 101 quoting incident number 31:440.

Alternatively, call the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111 where mobile phone tariffs may apply.