A FINNISH man has been left badly shaken after he was mugged while holidaying in the New Forest.

The 58-year-old was grabbed around the neck, knocked to the ground and kicked in the face.

His wallet, which contained £400 and some euros, was stolen and he was left with cuts and swelling to his face The robbery happened after the man left The Bosun's Chair public house in Station Road, Lymington, on Wednesday at about 12.45am.

As he walked along the High Street to get a taxi he was approached by a man who spoke to him briefly then walked off.

The same man then returned several minutes later and attacked the Finnish man as he walked along an alleyway leading to Mill Lane.

The mugger ran off down the alleyway and into Mill Lane.

He was described as white, wearing blue jeans, a white top and a pair of trainers.

New Forest police are appealing for witnesses. Investigating officer Det Sgt Steve Deeprose of Ringwood CID said: "We are anxious to hear from anyone who was in the area of Mill Lane and may have witnessed this robbery.

"The victim was left badly shaken and injured as a result of the attack."

Anyone with any information can contact Det Sgt Deeprose at Ringwood CID on 0845 045 4545, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

l A 33-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the robbery. He was bailed until July 18.