DETECTIVES hunting a thug who carried out an unprovoked attack on a shopper have released CCTV images of a man they would like to question.

The victim, a 23-year-old man, was sitting on a bench near to Boots and Woolworths in St James's Street, in Burnley town centre, when he approached by a gang of two men and two women.

One of the men abused the victim before punching him.

The attacker then fled towards Burnley bus station.

Initially it was feared the man had suffered a broken nose but tests found it was badly swollen.

The assault happened at about 5.45pm on Saturday, September 2.

Detectives believe the offender caught a bus to Rosegrove from the bus station at 6.15pm.

DC Sheralyn Melton, from Burnley CID, appealed for the man from the image or anyone who recognises him to come forward.

She said: "The incident happened just as many of the shops were closing so that may include shop workers who were finishing work as well as other visitors to the town centre.

"We are also keen to speak to a young man captured on CCTV cameras at the bus station.

"We believe he may have vital information and would urge him, or anyone who recognises him, to come forward as soon as possible."

The suspect is described as being in his late teens, about 5ft 10ins to 6ft and slim.

Anybody with information should contact DC Melton at Burnley CID on 01282 472282.