A MAN in his late thirties was pushed to the ground and punched by a gang of young people in the early hours of New Year’s Day.

A MAN in his late thirties was pushed to the ground and punched by a gang of young people in the early hours of New Year’s Day.

The assault happened at the junction of Station Road and Overstone Road, Harpenden, after the victim had been out celebrating the New Year.

He was walking home along Station Road when at the junction he passed a group of about 10 young people, aged around 16. One of them pushed him with his shoulder and others knocked him down and punched him. The victim suffered cuts and bruising in the attack.

One of the attackers is described as having dark brown hair and was just under 6ft tall.

Pc Barny Fryer, who is investigating, said: “This was a vicious and unprovoked attack on an innocent member of the public celebrating the New Year.

“I would like to speak to anyone who may have witnessed the incident and particularly a male who walked part of the way home with the victim as well as the driver of a black car who may have witnessed the attack.”

Anyone who can help is asked to contact the non-emergency number on 0845 33 00 222 or alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.