A 20-year-old man was assaulted in what York police have called a "classic road-rage attack".

Police today appealed for witnesses to the incident, which happened at 5.20pm on Wednesday in Fishergate.

PC Nick Bailey said the victim was driving along Fawcett Street when he had to sound his horn to warn another driver who had strayed into his lane.

"He didn't think anything more about it and continued around to Fishergate where he had to stop at a red light," said PC Bailey.

"He became aware that a car door had opened on his off-side and a man got out and approached him."

PC Bailey said the attacker spoke to his victim before punching him in the face.

"It was a classic road rage attack," he said.

The car the attacker was in before the incident was a white Ford Fiesta XR2, and he ran off towards the Novotel. Police are appealing for witnesses.

Contact PC Bailey on 01904 631321.

Updated: 08:21 Friday, January 12, 2001