A CCTV image has been released of a man police want to identify after a bus driver was hit on the head with a beer can in Bournemouth.

A man, who was not wearing a face mask, attempted to get on the bus at a stop in Charminster Road, near to Shelbourne Road, at around 4pm on Wednesday, July 22.

He became verbally aggressive when the driver refused to let him on before forcing his way onto the bus and sitting down.

When the driver went to remove him, he was hit on the head with a beer can and pushed to the floor before being kicked.

He sustained a cut to his head and went to hospital for treatment.

Officers attended and carried out a search for the offender but he was not located.

Police Constable Kate Brew, of Bournemouth police, said: “As part of our enquiries we have obtained a CCTV image of the suspect and I would urge anyone who recognises him to please contact Dorset Police.”

Anyone with information can contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55200107793. Alternatively, to stay 100 per cent anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call freephone 0800 555 111.