POLICE are appealing for witnesses to the assault of an 18-year-old man as he walked home from Swindon town centre.

The victim was walking alone from the town centre along Queen's Drive between 8.30pm and 9pm on Tuesday, May 19, and, as he turned into New College Drive, he noticed a group of four men crossing the road and walking towards him.

But, as he tried to walk past the group, one of the men blocked his path and asked him where he was going.

The four men then began verbally assaulting the victim, who continued to attempt to walk past them.

They then pushed him to the floor, held him down and physically assaulted him. It is believed he was kicked all over his body, and punched to the face. He sustained minor facial injuries as a result.

The incident is believed to have lasted less than five minutes after which the victim walked in the direction of Frobisher Driver.

Police say it is not clear in which direction the group of four men went but they did not follow the victim.

The four men are described as white, approximately 19 to 20 years of age. One of the men is believed to have had a skull tattoo on his wrist and one had a short beard.

Anyone who was in the area during the time of the assault, or anyone who may know who the four men are, should call PC Holly Moffatt on 101.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, where information can be left anonymously if preferred.