Police appeal after boy, 12, punched by dog walker near Hayle

A 12-year-old boy walking his dog with his dad near Hayle ended up with a punch to an arm that was already in a sling, and the man responsible is still out there.

What happened at Porthkidney Beach

At around 6pm on Monday 6 July, the boy was walking towards Porthkidney Beach in Lelant with his father when they were approached by a white man in his 60s, who was walking a black labrador.

The labrador became aggressive towards the boy’s own dog. During the commotion, the man punched the 12-year-old on the shoulder, despite the boy wearing a sling after breaking his elbow. He then walked off with his dog while the boy told his father what had happened. The father tried to catch up with the man and stop him, but he ran off.

The appeal for information

Devon and Cornwall Police says officers investigating the assault are keen to hear from anyone with information, relevant CCTV, or anything that could help identify the man with the black labrador. They are also asking to hear from anyone who has had a similar encounter with him themselves.

Anyone with information is asked to call 101 or visit the force’s website, quoting reference 50260175973.

📷Credit: Devon and Cornwall Police