A gay friend of Boy George has spoken out after he was attacked in central London.

Philip Sallon, the socialite and event organiser, was badly injured in the April 2nd attack in Piccadilly.

He suffered a brain haemorrhage and fractured skull after he was kicked and stamped on. He spent time in hospital but is now recovering at home.

Speaking to the Evening Standard, he said: “It was a severe blow to the head. From leaving home I remember nothing. It could have been some stranger who lashes out and just hates queers. But I also can’t rule out other possibilities.”

Mr Sallon said he now suffers severe headaches and a loss of smell, hearing and taste.

His friends feared he was the victim of a homophobic attack, although police are looking at other motives. No one has been arrested.

Friends said that Mr Sallon, a popular figure on London’s club scene, enjoys walking around the West End and night and striking up conversations.

He said he would not stop walking about alone and considered the capital safer than many high streets.

Boy George said the public response to the attack was “overwhelming”.