A MAN had his ear cut with a knife after refusing to hand over a cigarette and can of beer.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the attack in St Mary's Road, Southampton, at 4am on Sunday.

The 22-year-old victim was walking along the road when he was approached by a man asking for a cigarette.

He refused. The man then asked for one of the cans of beer he was holding, which again he refused.

At this point the unknown man is reported to have become aggressive and revealed what the victim believed to be a penknife.

The victim saw this and ducked out of the way. The blade connected with the top of his left ear, causing a cut which required stitches.

The suspect walked off towards Onslow Road.

He is described as:

  • Aged between 24 and 26
  • Around 5ft 7ins tall
  • Skinny build
  • Short dark hair and some stubble.

He was wearing blue jeans and a grey short sleeved t-shirt.

PC Dan Lines said: “I would appeal to anyone who was in the area at the time of this incident who may have seen something suspicious to get in touch.

“Did you see a man matching this description? Did you see what happened? If so we would like to speak to you as you may have information that could assist our investigation.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact PC Lines on 101, quoting 44160266553, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.