A TEENAGE girl with learning difficulties was punched and kicked in the face by a Cricklade bus stop.

Detectives say they are shocked and appalled by the unprovoked attack, which happened at the junction with Malmesbury Road and Forty, at around 4.45pm on Thursday.

The 16-year-old was travelling on the same number 51 bus from Swindon to Cricklade as the person police believe to be responsible for the attack.

She is described as white, aged between 16 and 17, of stocky build, and wearing a pink top and trousers.

The victim was left shocked by the ordeal and taken to the Great Western Hospital, Swindon, where she was examined and treated for minor facial injuries.

Yesterday detectives spent the morning interviewing the girl and gathering evidence by video at their Vulnerable Adults Unit in Melksham as the girl was unable to give a written statement.

Sergeant Steve Harvey, based at Wootton Bassett police station, is appealing for witnesses.

He said: "This was a very nasty assault that has caused us great concern and we're trying everything we can to detect the offender. We are hopeful in catching the person responsible."

Anyone with information is urged to call police at Cricklade on 01793 750207.