A gang of youths who seriously assaulted a dog walker are being hunted by police.

The 49-year-old was walking his dog in a grassy area between Highstonehall Road and Woodhead Crescent in Hamilton when he was approached by a group of youths who pushed him to the ground and seriously assaulted him around 7.30pm.

Police and ambulance attended and the injured man was taken by ambulance to Hairmyres Hospital in East Kilbride where he is being treated for head and facial injuries. Hospital staff describe his condition as serious.

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Detective Constable Stuart Burnside of Cambuslang Police Office said: “Our enquiries are continuing into this incident. 

"A large group of youths, both male and female were involved in this incident which has left the victim with serious injuries.

“Officers are studying CCTV footage from the local area to gather more information on those responsible and I am urging any witnesses, or anyone with information that may assist our investigation to contact Cambuslang Police Office through 101 quoting reference number 4160 of 12th May. 

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"Alternatively Crimestoppers can be contacted on 0800 555 111, where anonymity can be maintained.”