AN ELDERLY couple celebrating a 74th birthday were punched outside York Minster.

Several witnesses reported seeing a man punch the couple on Duncombe Place at about 7.15pm on Saturday.

A 21-year-old from Keighley was arrested and bailed but the couple fled, and police are now tryign to trace them to help with their enquiries.

Police say the elderly man was wearing a navy jumper over a pink shirt and was celebrating his 74th birthday.

PC Nicola Elliot, of York police, said: “This must have been an upsetting experience for the elderly couple and, understandably, they may have wanted to get away from the scene as quickly as possible. It is important, however, that we trace them so they can help us with the investigation.”

She said neither the man nor woman was believed to be seriously hurt but said she was keen to talk to them.

Anyone with information can phone 101.