A man suffered gashes to his face and hands after in a unprovoked attack in Glasgow city centre.

The 42-year-old victim was walking in Renfield Street, near BHS, when he was pounced on by the man welding what police have described as a "sharp object".

He suffered serious cuts as he tried to protect himself from blows.

The man was rushed to Glasgow Royal Infirmary for treatment.

The violent assault took place on at 12.30am on Monday.

Police say they believe the attacker may have targeted another man just before this attack.

They are appealing for that victim and anyone else with information on the culprit to contact them.

The attacker is described as white, 6ft, with a heavy build and he was wearing a grey tracksuit top.

He was seen in West Nile Street before the assaults with a woman with long blonde hair, who was carrying a red handbag.

Detective Constable Vikki Reid at Glasgow City Centre CID said: "This would appear to be a totally unprovoked attack which has left the victim with significant injuries.

"I’d like to speak to anyone who witnessed the incident or anyone who saw the suspect hanging around the vicinity before the attack took place or heading towards West Nile Street afterwards with the blonde woman.

"Enquiries have also revealed that the suspect struck another man just prior to this assault and the victim then walked off north along Sauchiehall Street.

"I am very keen to trace this man and ask that he contacts police immediately.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Greater Glasgow CID on 101 or alternatively Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.