A Greenwich man suffered a fractured cheekbone in an alleged homophobic attack outside a nightclub in east London.

The attack happened in the early hours of December 3 when Gordon Maxwell was punched on the right side of his face outside the Troxy Club in Commercial Road in Stepney.

One suspect allegedly made a homophobic comment towards 42-year-old Mr Maxwell who was wearing a white dress, Doc Marten boots and a brown jacket on a themed night out.

The suspect is described as white, of medium build and was wearing a blue coat with the hood up.

The second suspect who punched Mr Maxwell is described as aged between 19 and 28. He is of an Asian or black appearance and was wearing a blue puffer jacket with the hood up. His dark trousers had white lettering on the left leg.

Mr Maxwell said: "I fully believe I was targeted that evening because of my sexuality.

“This incident has had a massive affect on all aspects of my life. I am afraid to leave the house and to be at home alone. It has totally shattered my confidence.

“I cannot feel the right side of my face including my right side of my nose. The surgeons say I may have permanent nerve damage.

"My mouth and right eye does not open fully and I have lost my sense of smell through one nostril.

“I would like to urge anyone who saw the attack or thinks they know the people involved to come forward as I fully believe they may strike again - they must be stopped and brought to justice."

After the assault Mr Maxwell went back to the club to seek help before he was taken to hospital where he was told he needed reconstructive surgery.

Detective Constable Alice Tiritas, from Tower Hamlets CID, said: "This was a vicious attack that took place very quickly outside a nightclub and has had very severe effects on the victim, both physically and mentally.

"We take hate crime like this extremely seriously, and will do out utmost to bring perpetrators of this type of unacceptable attack, to justice.

"If there is anyone out there who saw these two men or heard them abused Gordon, please contact us as a matter of urgency."