A PREGNANT woman was hit in the head and punched and kicked while she was on the ground in a violent assault.

The 23-year-old victim was walking along Beatrice Road in Walton, near the junction with Hall Lane, when she was attacked from behind.

She was struck over the head with an unknown object and fell to the ground, where she was punched and kicked by the suspect.

The pregnant victim, from Walton, went to hospital and suffered swelling and bruising to her face.

It happened at about 11.15am on Thursday September 24.

PC Ben Spencer said: "This was a nasty assault on a pregnant woman.

"Fortunately she did not suffer any serious injuries.

"I would appeal for anyone who witnessed this assault or see anyone in the area acting suspiciously to contact me.”

Anyone with information should contact PC Spencer at Harwich police station on 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or at crimestoppers-uk.org