Police are appealing for witnesses after a man was punched in the face for no apparent reason in Barking town centre.

Officers were called to reports of an assault outside Boots, at the junction of Ripple Road and London Road, at about 8.15pm on Friday, February 27.

A 45-year-old male was punched by another man he had being sitting on the benches outside with, cutting his nose and lip and causing sustained bruising.

The victim, who had previously been speaking with the suspect, believes the punch was without motive.

The attacker is described as a white male, about 37-years-old, 5ft 6in, of medium build with dark hair cut short at the sides, longer on top.

Investigating officer Det Const Gemma Townsend said: “We believe that there were people in the area who witnessed this incident.

“I would very much like to speak to anyone who either saw the assault or who knows the identity of the suspect.”

Anyone with information should contact police on 020 3276 1096 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, quoting reference number CR5103207/15.