Between 10.45-11.30am, the 75-year-old British tourist was walking along Boneo Road, Rosebud West, when she was approached from behind by five youths aged in their mid-teens and riding bicycles.

None was wearing a helmet and some were wearing 'hoodies'.

A number of the teens had sped past her on either side and told her to get out of the way when she felt a sharp pain in the middle of her back.

She said the fourth male who rode past struck her between the shoulder blades.

Horrified and shaken, the woman continued walking towards Rosebud Plaza and, when looking to cross to the other side of Boneo Road, saw the group again.

Instead of crossing the road she continued walking on the same side when she was again approached from behind and struck a second time in the

back.

The woman, who was visiting relatives in Rosebud, suffered bruising to her back and repor-

ted the matter to police on Sunday.

She told police her assailant had short blond hair.

Leading Senior Constable Mick Gibson of Rosebud police

said that he hoped information from the public would assist in those responsible being apprehended.

"It's got my blood boiling; it's just a gutless and senseless assault."

His colleague, Sergeant Tony Paterson , said he hoped one of the members of the bicycle group would "do the right thing and come forward".

Anyone who may have witnessed the assault or has

any information can call Rosebud police on 5986 0444,

or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit the website at www.crimestoppers.com.au