A DOG walker kicked another man's dog and repeatedly punched the owner in the face in an unprovoked attack.

The victim, a 55-year-old local man, was walking his two dogs in Folly View, Bemerton Heath, at around 5pm on Thursday.

Another man with a black spaniel and a brown terrier approached and kicked one of the victim's dogs.

The victim shouted at the man, who then punched him in the face, knocking him to the floor.

The victim was able to get up, but the attacker came back and assaulted him again, punching him to the head and face multiple times before running off towards Winding Way.

Paramedics treated the victim at the scene.

The offender is described as white, approximately 5ft10in tall, of a slim build with short, fair hair, rugged features, aged in his early 30s.

He wore blue jeans and a dark jacket.

PC Oli Dury of Salisbury Police said: "This unprovoked attack was very frightening for the victim, it is only fortunate that he did not sustain any serious injury.

"We know that the suspect was walking a black spaniel and a terrier at the time, and is likely to be local so someone in the area will know who he is. We are appealing for anyone who has information on this man to come forward."

Anyone with information is asked to contact PC Dury at Bourne Hill Police Station on 101. Or call Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 where details may be left anonymously if preferred.