Two young men were attacked in Bournemouth on Friday 7 October.

At around 11.40pm, the victims, aged 18 and 21, were in Holdenhurst Road near to Cotlands Road with friends when they were approached by three men, one of whom was riding a bicycle.

The victims were punched repeatedly, with the 21-year-old sustaining a broken nose and fractured eye socket as a result of the attack, and the 18-year-old suffered soreness and swelling.

One of the offenders is described as white and wearing dark clothing. Another is described as black or mixed race with an afro-style haircut.

Detective Constable Evelyn Ahmadi, of Bournemouth CID, said: “This was a violent attack in the middle of the street, and we are carrying out a full investigation to identify those responsible.

“I am appealing to anyone who witnessed what happened, or who has any information relating to the identity of those involved, to please make contact with us.

“From our enquiries so far, we understand there were a number of members of the public in the area, including two young women, who may have seen what happened. I would urge any witnesses who have not already spoken to police to please come forward.

“I would also like to hear from anyone with relevant dashcam or CCTV footage covering the incident.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk/contact or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55220164596. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.