Words: Will Stroude

A manhunt is underway after four thugs launched a violent homophobic attack on two men holding hands on London's South Bank on New Year's Day.

Police are appealing for witnesses and information after the unprovoked assault in the busy tourist hotspot shortly before 2.30pm on 1 January.

The victims, aged 28 and 31, were holding hands as they walked past the National Theatre when they were attacked by a group of four hooded men, who later fled.

The victims suffered facial injuries and bruising in the brutal attack, which police are treating as a suspected hate crime.

In statement, the Metropolitan Police said: "The victims, aged 28 and 31, who were holding hands, suffered facial injuries and bruising in the assault. They did not require hospital treatment.

"The suspects are all described as white, aged in their mid-20s and wearing hooded tops. They left in the direction of the OXO Tower.

"Officers are issuing images of three of the four suspects in a bid to identify them."

Police are asking anyone with information to contact officers at Lambeth via 101 quoting reference 6108/1Jan. Alternatively you can tweet @MetCC or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.