A MAN approached a woman from behind, tripped her up and then kicked and punched her.

Officers investigating the assault have released CCTV images of a man they would like to speak to.

At around 5pm on Wednesday, May 18 a woman was walking along St Michael’s Road toward the junction with Purbeck Road.

Bournemouth Echo:

A man, who is reported to have been following the woman, approached her from behind and tripped her up, causing her to fall to the ground. He is then reported to have kicked and punched her.

The victim sustained cuts and bruises to her hand and face and an injured wrist.

The suspect ran away and was seen getting on a bus at Poole Hill Road. He later got off the bus at Fernside Road in Poole and walked towards the crossroads with Fleetsbridge Road.

Bournemouth Echo:

Police Constable Oliver Duell, of Bournemouth police, said: “It is believed this may have been a targeted attack and I am keen to identify the man in these CCTV images.

“I would ask anyone who recognises him to please contact Dorset Police urgently.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk/contact, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55220079217.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.