A WOMAN was hit in the head and fell to the ground before being repeatedly kicked by a man in Bournemouth.

After the assault it was reported that the victim was followed by the attacker.

Detectives have launched an investigation following reports of the assault at the junction of Droxford Road and Christchurch Road on Sunday evening.

Dorset Police said between 7.30pm and 8pm a man approached a woman, aged in her 20s and from Bournemouth, and made threats to hurt her.

The man reportedly hit the woman to the head causing her to fall to the floor, before kicking her multiple times.

It is also reported that the man damaged the victim’s mobile phone.

The victim sustained bruising to her forehead and eye, as well as injuries to her hand and leg.

Following the incident, the woman walked in the area of Harewood Avenue, Lascelles Road and Christchurch Road for around 30 minutes. During this time, it is reported that she was followed by the man.

A 21-year-old man from Bournemouth has been arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm, assault, criminal damage and stalking. He is currently assisting detectives with their enquiries.

The victim and arrested man are known to each other.

Detectives are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward.

DI Andrew Kennard, of Bournemouth CID, said: “I am appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the reported assault to please get in touch.

“I understand a man approached the victim on Harewood Avenue to check if she was all right and I would like to appeal directly to him to come forward as he may have important information to assist my enquiries.

“I would also like to speak to anyone who may have witnessed what happened following the incident or any motorists who were travelling in the area and may have captured anything of relevance on dashcam footage.”

Anyone with information should contact Dorset Police at dorset.police.uk, by emailing 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55210033713.

Alternatively, to stay 100 per cent anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call Freephone 0800 555 111.