UPDATE: Police have now identified the man shown in this CCTV appeal.

A security guard at Tesco was hospitalised after being struck in the face by someone trying to leave the supermarket without paying for everything in their trolley. 

An offender acted "aggressively" towards two security guards at a Tesco supermarket in Bletchley at around 2:25pm on Saturday, January 6, after they were caught leaving without paying for all the items in their trolley.

After being asked for proof of purchase while trying to leave the store, the person in question swung their bag at one of the guards, striking them in the face, before pushing them over. They then swung at the other security guard before leaving with the items in their trolley.

The security guard who was hit was taken to hospital with a minor facial injury but has since been discharged.

Police have now released a photo of a man they believe has vital information about the assault.

PC Hannah Smith, based at Milton Keynes police station, said: “I am appealing to anybody who recognises this man to please get in touch with us as we believe he may have vital information about this assault.

“If you are the person pictured, please come forward as soon as possible.”

Anyone with information that could help police in their investigation can make a report on the Thames Valley Police website or call 101 quoting reference number 43240007979.

Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or via its website.