A DOG walker was attacked and punched in the head.

Essex Police have launched a CCTV appeal following the incident in Southchurch Avenue, Southend, on December 22.

A woman was outside a shop when a man approached her and got into argument with her about her dog at around 2.40pm.

The man claimed the dog, described as a Jack Russell, had scared a young child that was with him.

He then attacked the woman, punching her a number of times in the head, before leaving the scene.

Anyone with information is asked to call Southend police station on 101 quoting crime reference 42/187558/18 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.