POLICE have released a CCTV image of two suspects after a man was battered in the street during an early-hours attack on Saturday.

The victim, who is in his 20s, was waiting for a taxi outside M&Co in Christchurch High Street between 4.30am and and 5am when he was approached by two men.

The men asked the victim for a cigarette and a lighter. The victim said he didn't smoke and both men began to walk away.

However, one then returned and kicked the victim in the face.

Both men then hit the complainant in the head and face a number of times before running away.

The victim suffered "significant" bruising to the right-hand side of his face, a black eye and a swollen nose.

The first suspect is described as white, aged in his 20s, five feet eight inches tall, with blond hair and stubble. He wore a dark-coloured jacket and clothing and trainers.

The second suspect is described as white, aged in his 20s, five feet six inches tall and of medium build with dark hair and stubble. He wore dark clothing and possibly a hat.

PC Luke Sands, of Christchurch police, said: “As part of my investigation I am issuing a CCTV image of the suspects and I would urge anyone who recognises them to please contact Dorset Police.”

No arrests have been made.

Anyone with information should contact Dorset Police at dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting 55170156624.