POLICE are appealing for help tracing a man suspected of assaulting a bus passenger after taunting his victim and girlfriend.

The couple got on the Number 43 service at Durham Bus Station at about 9.45pm on Sunday, August 27, to travel to Esh Winning.

Three young men sat behind the couple, drinking and smoking throughout the journey, and intimidated them by blowing smoke and spitting at them.

When they reached the village, the couple got off, but were followed by a man thought to be aged about 19.

The attacker punched the man and wrestled him to the ground, leaving his victim with a black eye and bruising.

The man police would like to speak to was slim, about 5ft 10in, and had mousey hair with blond tips. He wore a light T-shirt with a pattern on the front, and light jeans.

Anyone with information is asked to call Crimestoppers in confidence on 0800-555-111.