A MAN in his 50s was allegedly assaulted during a row about wildlife photography at a Dorset beauty spot.

Police have issued a CCTV image of a woman they would like to speak to in connection with the altercation, which happened while the victim was taking photographs at Stour Meadows, Blandford.

It happened at around 9.10am yesterday morning when police said the victim became involved in a verbal exchange with a woman who was walking a German Shepherd dog. The woman appeared to be attempting to sabotage his photos by getting in the way or disturbing the wildlife with her dog, police say.

The woman then walked off and at around 9.45am a man approached the victim accompanied by what is believed to be the same German Shepherd dog.

Police say he was swearing at the victim and punched him to the chest and then to the throat. They said the man made threats of further violence before walking off.

He is described as white, aged around 30, about 5ft 8ins tall and with ginger hair and a stubble beard. The man was wearing a brown jacket.

The victim did not sustain any serious injuries as a result.

Police Constable Kate Schofield, of Blandford police, said: “This incident left the victim understandably distressed and we are keen to identify those involved.

“We have obtained an image that is believed to be of the woman involved in the initial verbal exchange and I would ask anyone with information as to her identity to please contact us.

“I would also ask any witnesses or anyone who recognises the description given for the man responsible for this assault to get in touch.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55200172499. Alternatively, to stay 100 per cent anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call Freephone 0800 555 111.