A boy sustained injuries after a man punched him in the face during an argument, police have said, with witnesses to the incident now being sought.

The victim - a 14-year-old boy - had been walking from Hitchin Swimming Centre with his mum and their dog when the incident occurred in Fishponds Road at around 8.40pm on Sunday, February 4.

Herts police say a man approached them and an argument ensued in relation to the dog, before the suspect punched the victim, causing facial injuries.

He then walked off in the direction of the Westmill estate.

He is described as white and aged around 30 years old. He was wearing a blue coat and a black beanie hat with a stripe on it.

PC Gracie Robinson, who is investigating, said: "This assault has left the young victim understandably shaken, and we are supporting him as our investigation continues.  

"I am now appealing to the public in a bid to gather further information, witnesses, and any footage of the incident.

"If you were walking in the area around the time of the incident, please cast your mind back to see if you remember anything suspicious or recognise the description of the suspect.

"Any information could be vital, so please report it to me as soon as possible."

To submit information, email PC Robinson at gracie.robinson@herts.police.uk.

You can also report information online at herts.police.uk/report, speak to an operator in the Force Communications Room via the online web chat at herts.police.uk/contact or call the non-emergency number 101, quoting crime reference 41/9932/24.

Alternatively, you can stay anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form at crimestoppers-uk.org.