POLICE are appealing for witnesses to an alleged late-night racial assault in which a teenager was punched in the face.

An 18-year-old Iraqi man and his 20-year-old Iranian friend were approached by two men as they walked along Union Street. The teenager, who had been walking home from a friend's house, was hit once in the face by one of the two men who was "swearing and abusive", police said.

The victim suffered cuts to the inside and outside of his lip, and a swollen nose. Investigating officers said they believe the attack was racially motivated.

It happened at about 12.20am on Sunday, April 12.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call the police on 08452 777444, quoting crime reference EC/09/3716.

A 24-year-old Plymouth man was arrested following the assault. He has been released on police bail until May 19.