Witnesses are being asked for information after a teenage boy was "repeatedly punched in the face" by a man during an alleged attack outside a pub.

Dorset Police say the 17-year old was assaulted during an altercation with a man reportedly known to him.

The offender pushed the victim before repeatedly punching him in the face outside the Crown and Anchor pub on West Street, Blandford, according to police.

The victim is said to have sustained a fractured nose and swelling around his left eye during the incident, which is reported to have occurred at 9.40pm on Saturday, January 12.

Police constable Ally James, of Blandford police, said: “As part of my investigations I am appealing to anyone who either witnessed the incident or has any relevant information to please contact Dorset Police".

Contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55190006367.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org./