A MASKED man attacked a passer-by, punching him in the face on Halloween night, police said today.

Officers have issued a picture of the mask as part of a witness appeal.

At around 10.15pm last Wednesday, October 31, a 21-year-old man was walking down Lane End Road towards the Hour Glass pub.

He passed a group of up to 20 youths, believed to be aged between 16 and 18. Many of them were wearing fancy dress.

An egg was then thrown at the victim, before he was approached by a man wearing a white mask and punched in the face. It left him with a cut lip.

The offender was wearing dark clothing, including a hooded top, body warmer and gloves.

Investigating officer PC Steve Martin said: "This was a totally unprovoked attack.

"I urge anyone who recognises this mask or knows members of this group to get in touch."

Anyone with information should contact PC Steve Martin on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org