KENT Police are anxious to speak to a woman who may have vital information about a vicious attack on a 52-year-old man in an alleyway.

The man was walking along the alley between New Road and The Brook in Chatham when he was approached by two men.

One of the attackers asked the victim for a cigarette and then asked if he had any money.

The offender started patting the pockets of the victim who then pushed the man away. The second offender then punched the victim in the face a number of times. The victim fell to the floor and the offenders then took his wallet and ran away.

Police say a woman passer-by, who was pushing a buggy, stopped and spoke to the man and asked if he was all right.

The man did not get the details of the woman and police are asking that she contacts them as soon as possible as she may have vital information that will help the investigation.

The victim received bruising to his face and a small cut to his top lip.

The first offender is described as dark European, 5ft 8ins tall, of slim build with black hair. He also had a spotty chin and was wearing blue jeans, a dark jumper and training shoes.

The man spoke with a foreign accent, although his English was good. He also spoke in another language to the second offender.

The second offender is described as dark European wearing a checked shirt.

The incident happened shortly before 10pm on Sunday, August 7.

Anyone who may have seen something or who may have information in connection with this incident is asked to contact Medway Police on 01634 884252 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. All calls to Crimestoppers are free and are treated in the strictest of confidence.