A MAN has tonight been released on police bail following assault in Thirsk.

The 22-year-old, from Thirsk, was arrested earlier today in connection with the assault.

Police are appealing for witnesses following the incident on Sowerby Flatts on Friday morning.

A local man in his 20s was walking across the flatts towards York Road from the direction of Sowerby Parochial Hall at about 8am.

As he crossed the footbridge which crosses Cod Beck, he was approached by a man who assaulted him.

The area is popular with dog walkers and police are appealing for anyone with information about the assault to contact them.

A spokesman said: "If you were in the area of Sowerby Flatts from around 7am to 9am and saw a man matching his description, or witnessed the assault take place, please get in touch.

"Police are particularly interested in speaking to a man seen walking his spaniel dog in the area who may be a witness, the man was wearing an orange coloured coat with a mountain motif."

Anyone who can help is asked to contact Northallerton CID on 0845-60-60-247 Or, if you don’t want to give your name, you can ring Crimestoppers on 0800-555-111.

Inspector Tim Osborne of Thirsk Safer Neighbourhood Team said: "Thirsk is a very safe place to live and this type of offence at the this time of day is very unusual.

"We believe it to be an isolated incident and are seeking the help of the public who were around and about during Friday morning."