A woman was punched in the face and dragged to the floor after a man made a comment about her gender, police have said.

Thames Valley Police released a CCTV image on Monday morning in connection with a man they want to speak to following an assault in Witney.

The incident occurred at about 8.30am on Thursday, October 24 in the town's Market Square.

Police say a man made a comment about the woman's gender identity, which she had questioned him on. The man then "punched the woman in the face and dragged her to the floor". 

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Witnesses intervened in the altercation and supported the victim. 

Investigating officer PC Kieran Batchelor said: “I am appealing to anybody who recognises the individual in this image to please get in touch with us as we believe they may have vital information about this incident.

“If you are pictured, please come forward as soon as possible.

"I would also like to appeal to anybody in the surrounding area who may have witnessed this or has any information regarding this incident, to please get in touch."

Anyone with information is encouraged to make a report online, to call 101 and quote the reference number 43240513198, or anonymously provide information through the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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