TAUNTON police are keen to trace a witness to a racially motivated gang attack on an Afro-Caribbean man on Monday.

The man is not believed to be involved in the assault, but witnessed the attack by ten youths.

The 28-year-old victim from Taunton was set-upon at around 8.05pm.

The man was walking across Taunton Cattle Market towards the Firepool locks on the Taunton and Bridgwater Canal when the gang approached him.

Police say the group of boys and girls racially abused the victim and punched and kicked him, before stealing his black mountain bike and baseball cap.

Although not seriously injured, the victim was left shocked by the attack.

The witness is described as white, 30 to 40-years-old, 5ft 7ins tall with a medium build and clean-shaven.

He was wearing a distinctive cowboy-style straw hat, blue jeans and a dark blue top.

Anyone recognising the description of the man, or who might know who the offenders are, are asked to call Taunton CID on 01823-363254 or Crimestoppers on 0800-555111.