A MAN was punched in the face before being bereft of his wallet during a robbery in Bournemouth over the weekend.

At around 2.35am on Saturday July 24, the victim – a man aged in his 50s – was in Bourne Avenue, near to the Tesco store, when he was approached by another man who told him to hand over his money.

The victim refused, and he was punched in the face by the man. He then handed over his wallet containing £30 cash and bank cards.

The victim sustained a cut to his cheek and was taken to hospital for treatment.

Officers looking into the incident have issued an image of a man they would like to speak to as part of their investigation.

Police Constable Matthew Batter, of Bournemouth police, said: “This was a nasty, unprovoked incident and we have been carrying out a number of enquiries to try and identify the man responsible.

“I am now issuing an image of a man we would like to speak to as part of our enquiries. I appreciate the image is not of the best quality, but I am hoping someone may be able to recognise him.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55210118767.

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