The 51-year-old was driving his silver Kia along Avery Lane in Gosport when the attack happened.

He told the police that he braked to allow an oncoming vehicle to pass.

Then at some time between 3.15pm and 3.30pm, a dark red Peugeot saloon car overtook him and then reversed back towards him.

At this point the two drivers got out of their cars and police said that the Peugeot driver attacked the Kia driver, knocking him to the ground.

The victim, who is from the Gosport area, sustained bruising and was taken to Queen Alexandra Hospital for treatment.

Police appealed for anyone who saw the vehicles involved around the time of the incident to contact them.

The Peugeot driver was white, 5ft 8in tall and was stocky. He had short, dark hair and was in his late 30s to early 40s.

PC Esra Gumus, from Gosport police, said: 'We're keen to establish the circumstances that led to this assault and we need any witnesses to this altercation to come forward.

'In particular we're keen to speak to anyone who saw the Peugeot saloon in the vicinity of Avery Lane or Brockhurst Road at the time of the assault.

'We've spoken to several witnesses but I'd still like anyone who recognises the description of the Peugeot saloon and driver to get in touch.'

The attack happened on November 15, although details have only now been released by the police.

Anyone with information should contact PC Gumus at Gosport police station on 0845 045 4545 or 01962 841534.

Alternatively, call the charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.