The 21-year-old was set upon shortly after withdrawing money from the Abbey National cash point at the bottom of Bailey Street.

While at the cash point he was approached by a man who asked the time before walking off.

The victim then made his way down a passageway by the cash point leading to Willow Street. While in the passageway, he was grabbed by the throat from behind by a man who demanded his wallet.

A struggle broke out as the victim resisted but he was forced to the ground and repeatedly kicked round the head and arms. The assailant ran off when other people were heard approaching.

The injured man was taken to the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital with a suspected broken arm. Nothing was stolen.

A West Mercia Police spokesperson said: “This incident happened between 12.10am and 12.20am today near Santander in The Cross.

“We are anxious to hear from anyone who witnessed it or perhaps saw a man running away from the scene. It’s also possible someone knows the identity of the offender and again, I urge them to contact the police.”

The assailant is described as white, probably in his thirties and was wearing a baseball cap and dark tracksuit.

Anyone with information to assist the police investigation should contact Oswestry police station on 0300 333 3000, or the anonymous Crimestoppers number, 0800 555 111.