A RUSSIAN man living in Thamesmead was left with a four-inch gash to his head after being struck across the skull in a motiveless attack.

The 20-year-old man had returned from Woolwich on a 180 bus and got off at the junction of Yarnton Way and Harrow Manorway, Thamesmead, at about 11.30pm on January 26.

He walked along Harrow Manorway to the BP garage before walking home, when he became aware of three men behind him.

He was struck on the head from behind near Binsey Way. Police believe he may have been hit by a belt with a heavy metal buckle.

His attackers carried on hitting him after he fell.

The man staggered to his feet and when he arrived home his friends tried to call for an ambulance. After becoming increasingly worried about his condition they walked him back to the garage for help, when the man collapsed.

He was taken to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital.

His attacker was white, aged about 17 and wearing a navy top and cream trousers.

Anyone with information can call 020 8284 9135/6.