A MAN was savagely attacked as he walked home from Altrincham town centre.

The 58-year-old man, Dennis, suffered severe swelling to his left eye, cuts to his face and scalp and two of his teeth were knocked out.

The incident happened at 10.40am on Monday, December 29, on Grosvenor Road at the rear of the Old Mill pub.

Dennis was approached by a man, who pushed him to the ground and kicked him about the head and face; demanding he hand over money.

The attack only stopped when passers-by came to Dennis' aid.

Detective Sergeant John Fox from Altrincham CID said: "Dennis suffered some nasty injuries and we are releasing pictures of these today in the hope that it will jog people's memories, as they may have seen something that day which could assist us with our enquiries.

"We believe the offender followed Dennis through Altrincham town centre and waited until he had reached a more secluded area before launching his attack.

"Thankfully some members of the public heard Dennis's shouts and came to help him and disturbed the offender before he could hurt Dennis more seriously.

"The town centre would have been busy that day, as it was just after Christmas and the sales would have started, and it is possible that someone may have seen something which could assist us in our investigation."

Anyone who saw the attack, or knows the identity of the offender can call Altrincham CID on 0161 856 7545 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.