A MAN was subjected to an unprovoked attack and had his bag stolen while sitting on a beach.

The victim, a local man in his 40s, was sitting on Littlehampton beach close to Harbour Park amusements when he was approached from behind by an unknown man.

The attacker threw sand in the man’s face and punched him. 

The suspect picked up a stone and attempted to further assault the victim, before stealing his bag and running away from the scene.

He also took the victim’s shoes, which he dropped a short distance away.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the incident, which occurred between 6 and 7pm on Wednesday, August 24.

The suspect is described as a white man, about 5’5”, of stocky build, with short dark hair. He was wearing a black or dark vest top.

PC Mark Linberry, of the Bognor Neighbourhood Response Team, said: “This was an unprovoked attack in a public area.

“People were seen in the vicinity, some of whom were filming on their mobile phones.

“I would urge anyone who witnessed the incident or captured it on camera to please contact us.”

People can contact police online or by calling 101, quoting crime reference 47220158903.

Information can also be reported to independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.