Police are appealing for witnesses after a man was assaulted by three other men while in his van in Cropredy, near Banbury.

The 47-year-old man was living in his LDV van in Apple Tree Lane when a car pulled up beside the vehicle some time between 9.30pm and 10.30pm on Tuesday, June 2.

There were three men in the car, and the two passengers got out of the vehicle and forced their way into the van. They struck the man on the head and body with an empty gas cylinder.

The man managed to drive his vehicle away, but his attackers gave chase in their car as the victim headed in the direction of Claydon. He managed to drive about half-a-mile before his pursuers overtook him and stopped in front of his van.

Again, two men got out of the car and began shouting abuse at the man, before getting back in their car and driving off in the direction ofClaydon.

Det Sgt Steve Haddock, of Bicester CID, said: “The victim had to be taken to hospital, where his injuries are believed to have consisted of fractures to his face.

“We are very keen to hear from anyone who might have seen any of these events, or have information relating to who might have been responsible.”

Anyone with information can contact Det Sgt Haddock on the Police Enquiry Line 0845 8 505 505, or alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.