Daylight Punch Horror: NHS Worker Brutally Attacked in Cambridge
Attack Caught Thanks to Quick-Witted Witness
A man who cold-cocked an NHS support worker in broad daylight has finally faced justice — all thanks to a quick-thinking passerby. Matthew Robinson, 35, from Chesterton Road, Cambridge, struck the stranger without warning at 11.30am on 17 November 2019.
Shocking Assault in Midsummer Common
The victim was walking down Victoria Avenue when Robinson struck up a bizarre chat about the royal family. As the victim entered Midsummer Common, Robinson followed, closing in near the cattle grid by Maids Causeway. Without warning, Robinson punched him square in the face. The brutal blow sent the victim crashing to the ground, where Robinson kicked him in the head.
Witness Snaps Photo, Leads to Arrest
Passers-by rushed to help while Robinson fled the scene — but not before someone snapped a photo capturing his distinctive top knot hairstyle. That image helped police identify and track Robinson down. The victim later picked him out in an ID parade.
- The NHS worker suffered a fractured eye socket.
- His glasses were smashed during the vicious attack.
Sentence and Police Praise
Robinson initially denied the assault but then pleaded guilty to causing grievous bodily harm without intent at Cambridge Magistrates’ Court on 24 February. Yesterday (20 May), Cambridge Crown Court sentenced him to 12 months in prison — suspended for two years. He must also pay £250 compensation and complete a 30-day rehab activity programme.
Recorder Barry Kogan said Robinson had a “pretty abominable record” yet hoped he’d turned a corner: “I want to give him a chance.”
Detective Constable Hamish Cowley said: “Robinson launched a completely unprovoked attack on a complete stranger in broad daylight. It is only by luck the victim’s injuries weren’t worse. No one deserves an attack like this. Thanks to the quick action of passers-by and the crucial photo, we brought this violent offender to justice.”
