A Reading house boat was set on fire and destroyed after its owner was assaulted and robbed by two men.

The victim, in his 50s, suffered fractures to his face and severe bruising, and was taken to hospital.

At around 8.30am on Thursday, August 26, two men gained access to the house boat on Napier Road.

After assaulting the owner and stealing his Iphone they left, but when the owner went to seek help, he returned to find his boat had been set alight and destroyed.

Case investigator, Mark Sainsbury, said: “Anyone with information can contact police by calling 101 or making a report online, quoting reference 43210383018.

“Alternatively, if you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their website.”

The victim has been discharged from hospital.

UPDATE:

This article originally contained CCTV images of of a man who was believed to have information about the assault and arson in Reading.

The man in the CCTV has now been identified, therefore police officers no longer need the public and media to share the image.

A spokesman added: "Thank you to the public and media for their assistance in this investigation."