A MAN was punched in the face in an attack outside Pizza Hut in Benfleet.

Police are investigating following the incident outside the restaurant in the High Road at around 8pm on Tuesday October 21.

The victim, a 51-year-old man from Benfleet, was checking on the welfare of his daughter as she had reported that she had seen a man acting strangely outside her flat.

The victim was punched in the face and he fell on the floor, causing him to suffer cuts and bruises to his face and legs.

Investigating Officer PC Jonathan Bygrave said: "We believe that the man who carried out the assault is the same man that was seen to be acting strangely.

"He is described as being white with short brown hair, of slim build and was between 25 and 35-years-old.

"He was wearing a red top and had a red and grey rucksack on his back.

"None of the people involved have any idea who the man is.”

Anybody who witnessed the incident or who has any idea of who the man can be is asked to contact Pc Jonathan Bygrave on Essex Police 101.

People can also give information to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or through their Anonymous Online Form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.