Police have made an arrest after a woman who earned the praise of a Prime Minister as an 'ambassador' for people living with Alzheimer's disease was brutally attacked in a layby.
Joy Watson, from Eccles, , 61, was diagnosed six years ago, and forced to give up her job as a carer.
But due to her remarkable fortitude she became a champion for people with dementia giving lectures, raising awareness, teaching nursing students, and showing local businesses how to help those with the condition.
Her efforts earned her praise from the former Prime Minister, David Cameron. She was also made an Honorary Doctor of the University of Salford for her "tireless work".
But, she was left with a bloody nose and a fracture to her eye socket after a thug punched her 'like a boxer' last month in Yorkshire.
She was attacked by a man after she asked him to stop battering his dog.
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She spent two days in hospital in North Yorkshire and will need surgery at Salford Royal Hospital.
Joy was attacked even though she was wearing a badge which said 'I have dementia, please be patient'.
She had been driving to Bridlington to support friends who were doing the coast to coast cycle ride for charity.
Speaking after the attack Joy's husband, Tony, said: "Joy has dementia but like to remain as independent as possible. She went on a camping trip to the east coast, in a camper van, with her dog, Demi, who is an assistant dog.
"We think the couple were in possibly a black or navy car. The café owner got a partial registration, YG67."
"The man became abusive and told Joy to clear off. He then punched, like a boxer, straight in the face."
He later posted on Facebook after a further visit to Salford Royal: "We have now been told that not only did the thug fracture Joy's eye socket but her cheek as well.
"They have decided against surgery on the eye socket because there is a risk of causing her to have permanent double vision and the risks outweigh the possible benefits.
"We are hoping both fractures will heal in time."
In a statement Humberside Police said: "Working in conjunction with our colleagues at West Yorkshire Police, a man from Wakefield was arrested on suspicion of assault following an incident on the A164 on Sunday 7 July.
"A woman in her 60s from the Manchester area was allegedly assaulted in a layby near to Bracey Bridge in East Yorkshire.
"She was left with an eye and head injury which required hospital treatment.
"A 56-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of section 18 GBH and has been released under investigation."
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