A “nasty” unprovoked attack on a retired man on Christmas Day left him with unwelcome gifts of a cut and bruising.

Police in Poole are appealing for witnesses and anyone with information to come forward after the assault in Rossmore by a group of four teenage boys.

The incident took place near the junction of Herbert Avenue and Alder Road around 5.30pm on Sunday December 25.

The victim, a 64-year-old Christchurch man, sustained a cut to his face and bruising to his back.

PC Paul Mellor of Poole police said: “I understand that the victim was walking along Herbert Avenue near to the junction with Alder Road when a verbal altercation took place between him and a group of four teenage boys.

“The victim was pushed to the ground and assaulted.

“This was a nasty and apparent unprovoked attack on a retired man.

“I’m led to believe that there were a number of vehicles on the road at the time of the incident, therefore somebody may have seen the incident and may be able to assist me in my enquiries.”

He said: “I would urge anyone who witnessed this assault, or has any information about those responsible, to contact police urgently.

“All calls will be treated in the strictest of confidence.”

Witnesses and anyone with information are urged to call Dorset Police in confidence on 101, quoting incident number 25:263 or free and anonymous Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.