A MAN was hit on the head in a "serious assault" in an afternoon attack in Halstead High Street.

A police probe has been launched following the incident which happened last month.

Officers were called to Halstead High Street at around 4.20pm on November 25 following reports of a man being seriously assaulted.

The victim was approached by a man who hit him on the top of his head.

Town mayor Jackie Pell was shocked to hear of the incident.

She said: “It is rare in Halstead and not the behaviour we expect in the town - I just hope the person injured is okay.

“Not to mention it is most unusual at that time of the day.

“We obviously need to wait and find out more information to understand the full picture of what happened.

“It is clearly an important investigation for the police to issue this appeal.

“I believe this was an isolated incident and I don’t want residents worrying they are going to be assaulted on the streets.

“I would just urge the public to go to the police with any information of if they recognise the person in the image.

“But this is why the Safer Streets funding and the hiring of street wardens is important. We already have CCTV in the town but it works as another deterrent.

“The bottom line is we don’t want it to happen again.”

The investigation remains ongoing, and no arrests have been made at this stage.

Investigating officers from Braintree CID are now in the position to release an image of a man they would like to speak with.

A spokesman said: “We are appealing for the public’s help to identify this man, in connection with an ongoing assault investigation in Halstead.

“If you recognise him or have any further information, please get in contact quoting reference number 801 of November 25.”

Reports can be made by using the force’s live chat service, via 101, or anonymously through independent charity Crimestoppers, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555111.