A CASE of mistaken identity led to tragic consequences when a man was viciously assaulted outside a discount store yesterday (Thursday).

The 35-year-old victim was in the BUYology store in Weldale Street at 4pmwhen he said hello to a woman he thought he recognised.

But after realising he was mistaken another man in his 20s confronted him before picking up a brick from bushes outside and running towards him.

The shocked shopper tried to flee the store but tripped over and cut his knee before the younger man smashed him over the head several times with the brick.

The injured man suffered a cut forehead, eyebrow and knee and was taken to the Royal Berkshire hospital for treatment and later released.

His attacker is white with short dark hair and wore a yellow T-shirt and long shorts.

Witnesses should contact Detective Constable Graham Holdsworth on the 24-hour emergency number 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org