A FAMILY celebrating Christmas were abused by a pair of drunken thugs in an “unprovoked and malicious attack”.

They were verbally abused as outside the Central Bar, in Station Road, New Milton at about 5.30pm.

PC Chris Barrow said: "This drunken, abusive and yobbish behaviour has caused a family distress and upset at what should be a peaceful and festive time of the year."

The first suspect is 20-25 years old, 5ft 11ins to 6ft, slim with a narrow face and was wearing a grey hoody with the hood up plus jeans.

The second was also between 20-25 years old and said to be 5ft 9ins to 5ft 10ins with short black slightly curly hair, an oval face, black jacket and jeans.

The incident was on December 23, between 5.30pm to 6pm.