AN ELDERLY man was allegedly assaulted while he was sitting on a bench in Durham city centre.

The man, who is in his 80s, was sitting down in Market Place on Monday when the incident happened.

Detective Constable Lindsay Guest, from Durham Police, said: “The suspect sat down next to the man and made conversation before he became agitated and assaulted the victim.

“A witness intervened and stopped the assault going any further.

“We are appealing for this man to come forward as a witness, and the victim would also like to thank him for his help.”

  • A 23-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of assault and has been released under investigation.
  • Anyone who saw the incident are asked to contact Durham Constabulary on 101 quoting reference number 311 of October 9.