WITNESSES are being sought after an elderly woman was punched in the face in a busy town centre.

The 72-year-old suffered a broken tooth and bruising after she was attacked on the High Street in Northallerton on a busy shopping morning.

The assault happened between the Argos and Lakeland stores at about 10.40am on January 3 but details have only just been released by police.

A 43-year-old Northallerton man who was arrested in connection with the assault has since been released on bail to allow for further inquiries.

Following the assault the victim was spoken to by either a man or a couple and police are now appealing fort witnesses to come forward.

PC Paul Daykin said: “If you are the person who spoke to the victim after the incident I urge you to come forward and contact the police as I believe you may have vital information which could assist my investigation.

“I am also keen to speak to anyone else who witnessed the assault and ask them to get in touch straight away.”

Contact Northallerton police on 101, select option two and ask for Paul Daykin. Alternatively, information can be emailed to paul.daykin@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk or call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800-555-111.