A MAN was randomly attacked as he walked through a Southampton park.

Police investigating the assault in Hinkler Green are urging a woman who spoke to the victim before he was attacked to come forward.

The 30-year-old victim was returning from a friend’s house shortly after 12.15am on July 20 when he was stopped by the woman before he walked through Hinkler Green.

She told him not to continue into the park as he would be attacked, and after he decided to walk through it he was punched in the eye by a man as he passed the park’s basketball court.

He was hit again, before managing to run away towards Ellwood Avenue.

The attacked is described as white and aged 18 to 25.

He was clean shaven with short dark hair, and it is believed he may have been part of a group of about six people who were nearby.

Police has issued an appeal for information following the assault, and in particular officers want to talk to the woman who warned the victim.

Anyone with information should contact PC Hayley Goodsell at Bitterne police station on 101.