Police are investigating a "homophobic" attack where a man was punched after a couple were verbally abused.

The incident happened on October 1 at around 5.30pm when the two victims, both in their 20s, were walking along High Road in Chadwell Heath. 

It has been reported that up to six men unknown to them made verbally abusive comments and threats towards the couple. 

Pplice said one of the men punched one victim in the head. The attack left the man with cuts and bruises, and he was later treated in hospital and discharged. 

The second victim was not injured in the incident but both men were described by a Met Police spokesperson to be "understandably distressed".

Investigations are still ongoing into the circumstances, with the assault being treated as "homophobic". 

The police spokesperson said: "A dedicated LGBTQ+ liasion officer will have oversight of the investigation and [will] provide support to the victims".

No arrests have been made in connection to the incident. 

The spokesperson added: "The Met is aware of the corrosive effect of hate crime and is determined to bring those responsible for such crimes to justice."

Witnesses and those with information or footage are asked to call police on 101 or contact via ‘X’ Twitter @MetCC. Please quote CAD 5640/01OCT.

To give information anonymously contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.