Dorset Police officers investigating a public order incident are issuing an image of man they would like to speak to.

At around 10.15am on Thursday 9 April 2020 the victim – a man aged in his 70s – was walking with his wife along the footpath which runs from Thornbury Road to Wick Lane in Bournemouth. It is reported that a cyclist came from the opposite direction and impeded their path. He then became aggressive and threatened to cough on the victim.

Police Constable Jessica Richmond, of Bournemouth police, said: ‘This was a particularly alarming and distressing incident for the victim, in light of the current COVID-19 (coronavirus) epidemic.

‘As part of my enquiries I am releasing an image of a man who I would like to speak to. I would ask anyone who has any information as to his identity to please get in touch.”’

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55200051012. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org.