Pensioner Allegedly Choked And Thrown To Ground After Beach Confrontation Over Dog Ban

A 74-year-old man says he was left shaken after allegedly being assaulted while challenging a dog owner who had taken an animal onto Hope Beach, where dogs are banned during the summer season.

Police are investigating the incident, which happened at around 17:00 on Sunday (5th July) on the revetment at Hope Beach, between Sandown and Shanklin.

The pensioner told officers he approached a couple and their child after noticing they were taking a dog onto the beach. He says he politely pointed out that dogs are prohibited from the beach during the summer months.

According to the victim, the man, believed to be in his 30s, became aggressive during the exchange.

The pensioner claims that after questioning whether it was appropriate to behave in that manner in front of a child, the woman involved responded by calling him a "nonce".

He then began recording the confrontation on his mobile phone, but alleges he was ordered to delete the footage.

When he refused, he says the man grabbed him by the throat, choked him and threw him to the ground.

The 74-year-old says he repeatedly shouted for help during the incident, but no-one came to his assistance.

Paramedics from the Isle of Wight Ambulance Service attended the scene and assessed the man, who sustained minor injuries.

The pensioner says the incident has left him traumatised, angry and deeply shaken.

Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary has confirmed it is investigating the reported assault.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, or who has any information that could assist officers, is asked to contact Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary on 101, quoting reference 44260319771.