A MAN was hospitalised after being left with a broken arm, fractured jaw and concussion in an early-hours town centre assault.

Detectives are now appealing for witnesses to the attack, which happened at around 3.20am on Tuesday when a fight broke out between a group of men at Horseshoe Common, Bournemouth.

Police said that the victim, a 20-year-old man from Bournemouth, was punched by one of the members of the group as he tried to stop them targeting another man.

He was taken to the Royal Bournemouth Hospital for treatment.

The offender has been described as aged in his early 20s, 5ft 10in tall, of skinny to medium build and with dark brown or black shaggy medium length hair. He was wearing a black hooded top and jeans.

DC Amy Burbidge, of Bournemouth CID, said: “I am appealing to anyone who witnessed this incident or who knows who was responsible to please call me urgently.

“I know a number of people were in the area at the time and I would urge these witnesses to do the right thing and come forward.

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

No arrests have been made.

Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police in confidence on 101 quoting incident number 17:35. Alternatively, call the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111 where mobile phone tariffs may apply.