A cyclist who assaulted an 85-year-old man after threatening to hit his dog in Martlesham is wanted by police.

The elderly victim was shoulder-barged to the ground by the male cyclist, thought to be in his 30s, in the Deben Avenue area of Martlesham Heath at around 7.30pm on February 11.

The 85-year-old was walking his dog along Western Corridor, at the bottom of Deben Avenue, when the cyclist nearly collided with his dog.

“The cyclist then went to strike the dog and the victim challenged the cyclist’s behaviour towards his dog,” a Suffolk Constabulary spokesman said.

“At this point the cyclist became abusive. He then cycled off and as he did so he shoulder-barged the victim, causing him to fall to the ground.

“The victim was helped up by a member of the public and he sustained small cuts to his hands and pain to his side.”

Police are now appealing for help in tracing the cyclist. He is described as white, in his 30s, well built and was wearing a florescent jacket and a cycle helmet. He may have been riding a mountain bike.

Officers would also like to speak with the member of the public who helped the victim up as they may have witnessed the event.

Call police with information on 101.