A SHOP worker was reportedly punched in the face by a ‘verbally abusive’ man who had been asked to leave.

At approximately 3.50pm on Friday May 20, a man entered Lansdowne Post Office in Lansdowne Crescent and was verbally abusive toward staff.

The man was asked to leave the store.

As a staff member went to close the door behind the man, it is reported he punched her in the face and left the scene. The victim sustained facial injuries.

Officers investigating the alleged assault in Bournemouth have issued a CCTV image of a man they would like to identify in connection with the incident.

Police Constable Eleanor Saunders, of Bournemouth police, said: “We have been continuing to investigate this incident to try and identify the man responsible.

“Following enquiries, I am now in a position to issue a CCTV image of a man I would like to identify and would urge anyone who recognises him to please get in touch.”

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 55220080491.

Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.