The 27-year-old victim -- who said the attack was unprovoked -- needed treatment at King Edward VII Hospital.

Saturday's assault occurred at around 4.30 p.m. on North Shore Road, Hamilton, near the Francis Patton School.

The offender was known to the victim, Police said.

Police are also investigating a robbery in which a woman had her handbag snatched at knifepoint.

The 27-year-old woman reported that around 9.30 p.m. on Ferrars Lane, Pembroke, she was walking when a man rode up on a motorcycle and demanded her purse.

She handed over her bag which contained a small amount of cash with a driving licence and bank card.

The woman was not injured but was shaken. The offender was about 5ft 8in and wearing a blue ski type jacket and black crash helmet.

Witnesses or others who can assist are asked to contact Central CID at 295-0011.

Meanwhile, Police have again warned the public about leaving bags or valuables in unattended vehicles.