The 21-year-old victim of Asian origin was left with a cut lip and swollen face and jaw after being attacked by a skinhead.

The incident took place between the British Oak pub and Eddy Ryan's pub in Richmond Road at 11am on Saturday, May 7.

After he walked past a group standing outside the British Oak, the victim was followed by one of the men who started shouting racist abuse at him.

"The victim tried to fend him off at arm's reach but the suspect had obviously been drinking and was still being held at arm's length when he punched him quite a few times to the head and body," said a police spokesman.

Eventually others from the group pulled the attacker away and the victim was able to make his escape.

The suspect is white, around 20 years old, 5ft 9in tall and of athletic build.

He was a blond skinhead with a deep voice and a pitted complexion.

He was wearing a white Chelsea away shirt.

Anyone with information should contact Sgt Margaret Creigh on 020 8247 5165.