POLICE are hunting a gang who carried out a 'shocking' New Year's Eve attack on a man at Teignmouth.

'This was a completely unprovoked assault on a respected member of the community nd an act of cowardice,' said PC Phil Colley, who is heading up the investigation with CID officers.

The incident occurred at about 9.45pm at the bottom of Bitton Park, near the entrance to the rugby club, and police are appealing for witnesses.

A 38-year-old man was walking with a woman, when he was verbally abused by a group of youths who had just entered the park.

The man was pushed down a set of steps landing on his face, causing serious injuries.

Two members of the gang continued to shout abuse as the man lay motionless and then started to physically attack him.

'We are keen to speak to anybody who witnessed the attack, or may have information,' added PC Colley.

'We have several lines of enquiry, but would be very interested in hearing from anyone who saw this shocking attack.'

The incident may be linked to another assault on a man nearer the town centre on the same evening.

Anybody with information can contact the police on 08452 77744, quoting crime reference JG/11/02.