A man in his 50s has been hospitalised after a bike lock was thrown at his head in Oxford, police say.

The incident happened after a man pushed the victim, a man in his 50s, to the floor before striking him and throwing a bike lock at the victim’s head. 

The assault occurred between 5.45pm and 6pm yesterday (Tuesday, September 24) at a business on Dunnock Way.

The victim suffered a large cut to his cheek which required hospital treatment, where he remains at this time.

Thames Valley Police has now launched an appeal for witnesses following the incident of "actual bodily harm".

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The offender is described as a white man with short dark hair and a beard.

The force says he was wearing a black hooded-puffer jacket, grey Under Armour tracksuit trousers and black trainers with white soles.

Investigating officer PC Morgan Llewellyn, based at Cowley police station, said: “I would like to appeal to anybody who may have been in this area during this time and witnessed anything to please get in touch.

“You can get in touch by either making a report online or by calling 101 quoting reference number 43240460182.

“Alternatively, for 100 per cent anonymity, you can also call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”