THE hunt is on for a “cowardly attacker” who knocked a woman unconscious with a single punch.

The woman was walking home along Elliot Street, Tyldesley, when she was approached by a group of men and women.

The victim started to argue with the men and one of them punched her in the face, knocking her unconscious.

The attacker and the rest of the group ran away towards Astley Street.

The crime happened on July 21 at 2.30am.

Police have now issued a CCTV image of a man they want to speak to about the attack.

Det Con Kevin Byrne said: “This was a violent attack and the man fled the scene, leaving the woman unconscious on the floor and not even calling an ambulance.

“There are likely to have been quite a few people around at this time in the evening, maybe going home after a night out that may have seen the attack.

"Other members of the group in company with the man responsible may wish to contact the police with information.

“This was a cowardly act and the victim has been left with a serious injury. We are urging anyone who recognises the image of the offender to contact us immediately.”

The man responsible is white, 5ft 8ins tall, slim, and aged between 18 and 20. He had short sandy brown hair and spoke with a local accent.

People with information are asked to call police on 0161 8567225, 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.