A SHOP assistant was hospitalised after being assaulted by thieves at a supermarket in Poole.

Officers are issuing CCTV images of two people they would like to identify in connection with the incident.

At around 4.10pm on Thursday, October 10 , a woman entered Aldi in Fleets Lane and stole numerous items of food. A man was waiting by the door as the woman was inside.

As she left the shop, she was joined by the man before being confronted by staff members.

Two members of staff were assaulted by the man and woman. One of the victims attended hospital for treatment.

Detective constable Mike White, of Dorset Police, said: “As part of my enquiries, I have obtained CCTV images of two people I would like to identify.

“I would ask anyone who recognises them to please get in touch.

“It is unacceptable for someone to be assaulted while doing their job and we are determined to identify those responsible.”

Anyone with information can contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55240156396.

Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.