Pensioner Samuel Cooper was enjoying a walk with his dog in the Greenway at midday last Thursday when he was approached by a stranger.

The unknown man, who was white, stocky, and around 30, shouted abuse at the 81-year-old, telling him to keep his dog on a lead.

Within seconds, the suspect lunged at Samuel and tried to bite his face.

When he failed, he punched the elderly man so hard that he was knocked unconscious.

Samuel had to have reconstructive surgery on his jaw, which was broken in two places.

DC Jon Saddington from Newham CID said: “This was a brutal attack on an elderly gentleman simply out walking his dog. To attack a defenceless individual in such a brutal manner is despicable.”

Now detectives are appealing for anyone who witnessed the assault or who has information about the suspect, who is around 5ft 8ins in height with short stubble, short dark hair, and was wearing dark jeans and a short-sleeved top.

Police are also keen to identify a potential witness - an Asian man who was walking his dog in the area moments before the attack happened.

Anyone with information is asked to call Newham CID on 07747 780610 or contact via Twitter at @MetCC. You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.