Worker allegedly 'dragged from store', bashed by maskless man

A man has been charged after refusing to wear a face mask inside a food store in regional New South Wales before allegedly assaulting a worker.

The 53-year-old maskless man walked into the Murrurundi store on Mayne Street about 4.15pm yesterday and allegedly became aggressive towards a staff member when he offered the man a mask.

Police said the man left the store after allegedly being "verbally aggressive" towards the 30-year-old worker.

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However he returned a short time later, walking behind the counter and allegedly assaulting the man repeatedly, and attempting to drag him from the store while threatening him.

Customers rushed to assist the staff member and the alleged offender left the store.

Paramedics treated the employee at the scene for cuts and bruises to his face and swelling to his left eye, before taking him to Murrurundi Hospital.

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He has since been released.

Police attended a home on Rosella Street in Murrurundi and arrested the 53-year-old man.

He was taken to Muswellbrook Police Station where he was charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

The man was granted conditional bail to appear at Scone Local Court on November 18.