A 15-year-old Army Cadet suffered burns to his face after he was attacked just minutes after selling poppies for Remembrance Day.

It happened at about 6pm yesterday as the 15-year-old boy was waiting at a bus stop next to the Manchester Gallery opposite George Street in Manchester.

The teenager was wearing his camouflaged uniform having spent the day in the city centre selling poppies and collecting money to commemorate Remembrance Day.

Greater Manchester Police said he was approached by a man who, without warning or provocation, produced an aerosol can and a lighter which he used to spray lit fumes in the direction of the unsuspecting teenager.

Shocked at what had happened, the Cadet suffered minor reddening to his face and singed hairs on his face and right forearm.

Without saying a word, the offender walked off. He is described as being black or Asian, 5ft 8in tall and wearing a dark hooded top.

He appeared to be under the influence of alcohol and was staggering, police added.

The force is now appealing to anyone with information to come forward.