A VICTIM of a horrific attack needed an operation to treat a fractured eye socket, it has emerged.

The 42-year-old man became embroiled in an argument with another man outside the Co-op store in The Broadway, Thatcham.

What came next was a shocking attack when the man was punched in the face, leaving him with a severe injury to his eye.

The victim was rushed to Royal Berkshire Hospital on December 17, shortly after 7.10pm. Doctors needed to perform an operation on the victim's eye and he was later discharged.

Officers investigating the case are yet to track down the attack and have appealed for anyone with information about the incident to come forward.

Thames Valley Police want to talk to a man and a woman who were seen petting the victim's dogs shortly before the attack.

A spokesman for Thames Valley Police said: "At around 7.10pm on 14 December 2017 the victim, a 42-year-old man, became involved in a verbal argument with a man outside the Co-op in The Broadway. The man then punched him before walking away in the direction of Station Road.

"Officers investigating the incident would like to speak to a man and a woman who were present at the time of the incident and were petting the victim's dogs, which had been tied up at the bike rack outside the shop."

The attacker was described as white, around 5ft 9ins tall, of medium build and aged in his mid to late twenties. He has short dark hair and was wearing a dark coloured jacket.

Police constable Michael Wray said: "As part of our continuing investigation in to this incident, which resulted in the victim having to undergo ongoing medical treatment, I would like to appeal to the man and woman who were present during the incident petting the dogs and who are potential witnesses.

"If you believe this refers to you, please get in touch with officers. You are not in any trouble whatsoever however you may have seen something which could help our investigation."