A YOUNG assault victim was left in need of surgery and ongoing treatment after a violent attack during a night out with friends.

The 20-year-old suffered a fractured cheek bone and broken nose when he was punched in the face by an unknown man as he walked along Old Christchurch Road in Bournemouth.

He has had one operation and needs another as his injuries have been affecting his breathing at night.

Now police have released this CCTV image in a bid to track down his attacker.

The incident took place at around 3.25am on Christmas Eve but police have only just released details.

Detective Constable Laura McQueen, of Bournemouth CID, said: "While I appreciate this incident occurred some months ago I am very keen to identify the four people pictured as they may be able to assist my investigation and bring the offender to justice.

"I believe the three men pictured were part of a group walking away from the scene. The woman pictured is walking toward where the incident occurred and was not part of the group, but may have witnessed what happened.

"I am appealing to anyone who is able to identify anyone pictured to contact police or call Crimestoppers anonymously."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police on 101, quoting occurrence number 55160192067. Alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or via crimestoppers-uk.org.