DETECTIVES in Bournemouth are hunting a man who seriously assaulted a student in the town centre.

The incident, in which a 21-year-old Bournemouth student was allegedly punched in the side of his face, took place between 3.30am and 3.50am on Sunday October 12, outside the Subway in Post Office Road.

Police released details of the incident this afternoon.

A spokesman for the force said that the victim fell to the ground and sustained a broken jaw from the attack after being verbally abused by the offender for being a student.

He was initially taken to the Royal Bournemouth Hospital for treatment and then subsequently was admitted to Poole Hospital, where he underwent an operation and was admitted for several nights.

The offender is described as a white man, of medium build, around 5ft 5in to 5ft 7in tall, with short dark hair wearing a white long sleeved t-shirt.

Detective Constable Caroline Craft, of Bournemouth CID, said: “This incident caused a very serious injury.

“As it occurred in a busy area of town a number of people may have witnessed what happened.

“I am appealing for anyone who saw the incident, or has any information about the events leading up to it, to contact Dorset Police.”

The victim is described as a white male around 5ft 10in, of slim build and was wearing a green checked shirt, blue denim jeans and Vans shoes. DC Craft added: “I am particularly interested in speaking with a male that intervened during the incident.”

Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police in confidence on 101, quoting incident number 12:75.

Alternatively, call the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111 where mobile phone tariffs may apply.