A MAN in his 70s suffered serious injuries after being attacked in Teignmouth on Saturday.
Police are investigating reports of the assault, described by witnesses as ‘brutal’.
It happened on Saturday evening on the Promenade just after 9pm.
The man is said to have been assaulted by another man before at least two other men joined in.
The victim fell to the floor where he was repeatedly hit again by the group.
Police are now appealing for witnesses to the assault.
A group of people who were nearby tried to help and step in to stop the attack.
They also called 999 asking for help from police.
But the culprits had fled the scene before officers arrived.
The victim was taken to hospital for treatment for his injuries which police have described as ‘serious’.
A witness said it was a ‘brutal’ attack.
He said there were two pensioners who were targeted while outside of their camper van which was parked near the Pier.
The witness told the Teignmouth Post: ‘A group of youths punched the old man to the ground and repeatedly punched him in the face, while two others repeatedly kicked him in the body.
‘The woman was punched to the ground while calling the police.
‘A dog walker and his son came to their rescue and intervened.
‘Two old age pensioners who have worked all their lives and who are wanting to enjoy their retirement years by visiting seaside towns should not be subjected to this sort of treatment by thugs.’
Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 quoting 50240004715.