Elderly man in hospital after an unprovoked attack in Bedminster Parade yesterday

An elderly man sustained fractures to his face and bleeding to the brain following an unprovoked assault in Bedminster yesterday (Wednesday February 6).

The assault happened at about 1.40pm in Bedminster Parade.

A 73-year-old man walked past NatWest bank when a man on bike cycled past him in the opposite direction. Shortly after, he turned around and cycled back to the victim assaulted him from behind. The offender then made off in the direction of Phillip Street.

The victim sustained fractures to the face and a bleed to the brain and was taken to hospital.

Detective Comstable Cerys Millichip said: "This was an unprovoked assault that has left a man with serious injuries. This is a busy shopping area and I am confident that many people witnessed this assault taking place.

"I would urge anyone who witnessed this incident to come forward and contact Bristol CID with information."

Officers are also keen to speak to a man who was wearing a dark-coloured jacket with a light coloured hooded type top underneath. He had the hood up and was also wearing a rucksack.

Anyone who has information is asked to contact police on 101 quoting reference 12378/13.