A THUG punched a man to the floor before apologising and offering to help him up - then hit him again.

The bizarre attack unfolded in Banbury High Street at about 5.30am yesterday, near The Cherwell pub, and police said it was unprovoked.

A man in his 40s was walking along when he was punched in the back of the head.

The blow landed with such force that the victim fell to the floor.

ALSO READ: Man seriously injured in Oxford city centre brawl

Police said the man who punched him then apologised, and offered to help the victim up.

At that point he then punched the victim again, this time in the face.

Two men who were passing by approached the man following the attack, and walked him home.

Police said the victim did not need hospital treatment, but suffered bruising to his cheek and face, and grazes to his knee.

ALSO READ: Tributes left at scene after man dies falling from A40 bridge

Investigating officer, PC Samantha Devlin, based at Banbury police station, said: “We are appealing for witnesses to this unprovoked assault.

“In particular we would like to speak to the two men who came to the victim’s aid and walked him home.”

Anyone with information can call 101 or visit the force's website, quoting reference 43190119044, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.