A gay couple have said they were attacked in Long Beach, California on Saturday while riding their bicycles.

Jamie Jarvis and Meg Taylor said they were attacked by three African-American females while returning home from a party near Broadway and Esperanza Avenue.

The assailants were reported to have been driving a silver Mercedes SUV and a silver four-door Ford Focus.

Ms Jarvis told Long Beach Post: “Meg and I were jumped coming home from a birthday party.

“We just got out of the ER. This should have never happened and I thought my girl was dead.

“I’m not ok with this. Please help by keeping your eyes out. The girl in the SUV had two toddlers with her. Is this how we want our youth raised? Please spread the word.”

Ms Jarvis took to Facebook and posted a graphic photo following the incident.

It is reported the incident took place after a suspect sounded their horn at the victims which prompted one of the victims to give a “hand gesture” in response.

Only one of victims was transported to hospital where she was treated for non-life threatening injuries.

Police are currently investigating the matter, although it is unknown whether the incident is to be treated as a hate crime.