A MAN believed to be in his 60s was hit a number of times in the face in Downton.

Around 5.15pm yesterday the incident took place outside the Co-op in The Borough.

The victim did not appear injured and has not reported the assault to police, but a witness informed Wiltshire Police and officers attended the scene.

A 12-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of assault by beating and was interviewed at Melksham Police Station.

He has since been released on conditional bail while enquiries continue.

Sergeant Steve Jolly, from Wiltshire South Community Policing Team, said: “We are urging anyone with information, including the man who was assaulted, to come forward and speak to us.

“We want the public to know that this sort of behaviour is completely unacceptable and we will fully investigate the assault, with the hope of cracking down on anti-social behaviour and violence.”

Anyone with information is asked to call Wiltshire Police on 101, quoting crime reference 54190103185. Alternatively Crimestoppers can be called anonymously on 0800 555111.