A MOTORIST was punched in the face by a furious driver following a ‘road rage’ incident in the heart of Burnley.

The 30-year-old victim was driving along New Hall Street, at around 3.20pm on Wednesday, in a silver Renault Clio, when the incident began, according to police.

Another motorist, in a black BMW, who is thought to have emerged from a side street, began flashing his headlights and beeping his horn at the Clio driver.

Sgt Phil Carter, of Burnley police, said the BMW driver cut in front of the Clio, forcing the Renault driver to brake sharply.

The BMW driver got out of his vehicle, still remonst-rating with the other motorist, and walked towards the Clio.

He opened one of the Clio's front door and, without warning, punched the other driver in the face, said Sgt Carter.

The attacker is then said to have returned to his BMW and driven off in the direction of Abel Street. Police say they are looking for a 6ft tall Asian man in relation to the incident, which bears all the hallmarks of road rage He had a long beard, was aged around 35 and broadly-built, according to the victim.

Sgt Carter said a partial registration number had been obtained for the BMW driven by the attacker.it begins M29 but the last prefix is still unknown.

He added: “We would like to hear from anyone who witnessed that attack or may know anything about the suspect vehicle.”

Anyone with information is being asked to call Burnley police on 01282 425001 or Crimestoppers, in confidence, on 0800 555 111.