He was pushed to the ground and punched in the face before the assailant ran off. The teenager was not seriously hurt and did not require medical treatment.

Police today appealed for witnesses to the incident which happened at around 7.10pm near the Tesco store in White Lion Meadow.

The air cadet, who was wearing his uniform, had just left the store, walking in the direction of Mill Street when attacked on the car park. He was pushed from behind, making him drop a pint of milk, and then punched in the face.

Police Constable Dan Booth, the investigating officer, said: “An unknown male has leant over him and grabbed him by the throat, punching him with a blow to the side of his face causing minor injuries.

“The victim managed to get to his feet, swung a punch in retaliation and then ran from the suspect to the cadet centre in Mill Street.”

PC Booth added: “This was an unprovoked assault and I am appealing for witnesses or any information which might help identify the offender. Contact Whitchurch police station by calling 101.”

Information can also be given to the anonymous Crimestoppers independent charity by calling 0800 555 111.