Police are appealing for information after an investigation was launched into a homophobic assault and robbery in Blackheath.

Officers were called to Vanbrugh Park Road at 10.23pm on April 7 following reports of an assault.

Police found a 36-year-old man with bleeding and bruising to his face.

The victim was walking on Blackheath Common in an area known as Blackheath Dip when he was attacked by a group of around five males, and possibly a female.

He was repeatedly punched in the face and held around his neck, causing him to lose consciousness.

They then dragged him across the ground by his hood and hit his face against the pavement. Throughout the attack the gang used homophobic words.

They then stole the victim’s car keys and drove off his white Peugeot 208 Access, which contained his mobile phone and wallet.

The victim was treated at the scene by paramedics and taken to hospital. He has since been discharged but is suffering from his injuries and is still in shock.

One of the males was described as white, with a thin face, thin lips and spoke with a London accent. He was wearing a grey hooded jumper.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Adam Pearce said: "This was a completely unprovoked and targeted assault and we believe there may be further victims not yet in contact with police.

"Both the attack and the homophobic motivation of this assault are abhorrent and I appeal to anyone with any information that could assist the investigation to come forward.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact the South East Safe Guarding Unit by dialling 101 and quoting reference CAD 7270/07Apr, Tweet @MetCC or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.