A MAN was punched in the face and needed surgery after trying to intervene in a domestic incident.

The 35-year-old Bournemouth victim suffered a fractured cheekbone and now police are appealing for witnesses to the incident.

He was struck outside KFC at the Lansdowne at around 1.45am on Sunday May 25 and reported the attack to Dorset Police on June 4 after learning that surgery was required.

Detective Constable Charlie Soutine, of Bournemouth CID, said: “I understand that the victim intervened in a domestic incident that was taking place between a man and a woman outside of the KFC fast-food restaurant.

"This coincided with the arrival of a group of men wearing red T-shirts – most likely out on a stag do. At this point the victim was struck by an unknown man.

“This is a busy area of Bournemouth and a number of people will have witnessed this assault and the events leading up to it.

"I am appealing for anyone with any information about this violent attack to contact Dorset Police urgently.

“The victim has sustained a nasty injury as a result of his public-spirited actions and it is important that we identify the person responsible.”

Witnesses and anyone with information have been asked to call Dorset Police in confidence on 101 quoting incident number 25:52 or the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111 where mobile phone tariffs may apply.