A WOMAN was left battered and bruised after she was assaulted while walking through an east Cleveland village.

The 20-year-old exchanged words with a man as they walked along Abbey Street, Brotton, art around 2am on Sunday, September 21.

The man was believed to be acting aggressively and is thought to have threatened another who was walking past with his dog.

When the dog walker had left the scene, the man allegedly assaulted the woman, punching her to the face and stamping on her.

She managed to get to her feet and run away, before being taken in by a local resident who assisted her.

She later attended James Cook University Hospital and was treated for two suspected fractures to her cheeks, a ripped ear lobe and severe swelling to her face and body.

Officers have charged a 22-year-old man with grievous bodily harm with intent.

Detective Constable Jon Button is urging the dog walker, and any other witnesses, to come forward and call the non-emergency number 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800-555111.