Officers said the reported incidents of hit and run and assault took place around 01:50 at the bottom of St. Saviour’s Hill.

Explaining the sequence of events in a statement, officers said: “A man crossing the road at the bottom of St. Saviour’s Hill was hit by a white van that was heading up the road from Roberts Garage at Springfield and turning right onto St. Saviour’s Road in the direction of Hotel de France. The van did not stop and continued driving along St. Saviour’s Road.” It was described as a small caddy style van.

They continued: “The man was not seriously hurt but whilst lying on the road a pedestrian walked past him and after an exchange of words the pedestrian then punched the man several times, causing minor injuries to his face.”

Police are now seeking to identify both the van and the pedestrian.

This pedestrian is described as being in his 40s, around 5″6 tall with short brown hair and dressed in tweed.

Anyone with more information is urged to contact police on 612612 or make an anonymous report via independent charity Crimestoppers aon 0800 555 111 or via their dedicated online form.