A WOMAN was assaulted by a man who asked her for a light for his cigarette and then started chatting to her.

The 29-year-old was sitting on a bench with friends near Margate’s Winter Gardens at 2.30am on May 16 when they were approached by a man and his friend.

The suspect asked if she had a light, which she did not, but they carried on chatting. Then the man became aggressive and hit the victim to the head and punched her in the face. He and his friend then ran off.

The victim suffered cuts and bruising to her face as a result of the attack.

DC Lee Goodey is investigating the case and wants to speak to witnesses or anyone who recognises the suspect from the e-fit.

At the time of the incident the suspect wore a stripy shirt and jeans. DC Goodey can be contacted on 01843 222175.