A REVELLER was punched in the face by another woman during an assault at a newly opened bar.

The victim, aged in her twenties, was attacked while she was in the smoking area at Revolution, in Queens Road, Southend.

She was taken to Hospital for treatment to facial injuries.

Police have released CCTV images in an attempt to track down her attacker. The incident took place just after midnight on Saturday.

Revolution has became a popular venue in the town since opening its doors for the first time last month. The national chain spent £1million transforming the former HMV store.

Customer Gabby Alexander, 30, of Southchurch Avenue, in Southend, said she hoped the assault won’t damage business.

She said: “These things happen, I don’t think it is unusual for fights to break out in bars and nightclubs.

“Revolution is nicer than some of the other places in town and I don’t think it is something that happens a lot, it is just one of those things.

“I think the more places that there are, the more it could happen. And with alcohol in the mix, it isn’t really surprising.

“It won’t stop me from going there, it is a good night out and I have always felt safe.”

Stacey Wells, 22, from Southend, told of her shock at the altercation.

She said: “I am surprised a woman got punched, usually when you hear or see of fights in bars, it is between men.

“I have been to Revolution before and it is quite nice and there has never been any trouble.

“The smoking area is pretty small and there isn’t much space.”

An Essex Police spokesman said: “Police investigating an assault at a bar in Southend are releasing CCTV images of a woman they want to speak to.

“The woman pictured is described as around 5ft 5ins tall, blond hair and wearing a black leather dress while carrying a clutch bag.”

A spokesman for Revolution said bosses are working with the police as the investigation into the assault continues.

He added: “We have a zero-tolerance policy on antisocial behaviour and do not condone violence of any nature. Our staff are working closely to assist the police and we encourage anyone with any information to pass it on to the police. Our thoughts are with the victim of this attack we wish her a full recovery.”

Anyone who recognises the woman pictured or has any information about the assault can contact Pc Alex Farr at Southend police station on 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.