A TEENAGE girl was punched in the face by a man in Harrogate.

The 17-year-old victim was walking along a cycle path off Woodfield Road at about 1.30pm on Friday when she noticed a man who appeared to be lost.

North Yorkshire Police said the girl asked if he was lost and if he was okay, at which point he appeared agitated and punched her in the face before running away.

PC Adam Fenwick of Harrogate Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: "This was an alarming, unprovoked assault on a lone girl who offered to help someone and in return for her concern, was punched in the face.

"The victim suffered bruising to her eye and was very shaken up by what had happened to her. I am appealing to anyone who can help us to find out who was responsible or has any other information which could assist our investigation, to please contact us as soon as possible."

The man was white, about 5’9” tall, aged between 20 and 25 and of slim build. He was unshaven and had short, brown, greasy hair which was shaved at the sides and the top was brushed back. He was wearing a dark coloured hoodie with a zip on the front and light blue jeans.

Anyone with information should contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, email adam.fenwick@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk or phone Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.