A THUG who launched a bizarre and unprovoked attack on a man who was out jogging is being hunted by police.

He was out running along the B1257 between Stokesley and Great Broughton at around 7.30pm last Tuesday when he was attacked.

details of the incident were only released by police today.

His assailant got out of a black car and repeatedly punched the victim to the head and body before getting back in the vehicle and making off towards Great Broughton.

The 23-year-old victim, a local man, suffered a broken nose and extensive bruising to the face and body and was taken to the Friarage Hospital in Northallerton where he was kept overnight.

The attacker was in his late 20s, had a stocky, muscular and athletic build and short dark hair. He was wearing a black short-sleeved top and black Nike Air Max tracksuit bottoms.

PC Christopher Ross, of North Yorkshire Police, said: “This would appear to be an unprovoked attack for which the motive remains unclear. The victim suffered some nasty injuries.

“Anyone who witnessed the assault, was in the area at the time of the incident, or has any other information that can help the investigation is urged to contact us.“ Anyone who can help should contact police on 0845 6060 247 - quoting reference number 12110081546 - or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.