AN urgent appeal has been launched by police to identify the owner of a "Pooh Bear" keyring.

The enamel fob and a set of keys were recovered on Wednesday night from the scene of a serious assault where one man, aged 62, was viciously beaten by two skin-head thugs.

The victim was punched and kicked about the body by the attackers who also stamped on his head. He was taken to Bury General Hospital for treatment to a broken arm and cuts to his face and neck and is currently recovering at Fairfield Hospital.

Detectives want to hear from any witnesses to the attack or from anyone who knows the identity of the owner of the key-ring.

Detective Sergeant Duncan Heywood of Bury's Operational Police Unit said: "The victim was walking along Brighton Street, Bury, shortly after 10pm on Wednesday when he met up with two men out walking a Pit Bull terrier.

"It would appear dogs may have attacked each other before the men then turned on the 62-year-old. He was beaten to the floor and the thugs then jumped on his head before running off."

Both attackers are described as white, approximately 25-years-of age with shaven heads. One was wearing a blue and white Nike top.

DS Heywood said: "The key-ring was discovered at the attack scene and it will now be sent to our forensic unit for analysis.

Bury CID can be contacted on 0161 856 8150. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.