Homophobic attack outside Bristol pub Seamus O'Donnell's

The victim was punched in the face during an unprovoked attack outside a bar

Police are seeking witnesses after the victim of a homophobic attack was left with a broken eye socket.

The victim, who is in his 20s, was assaulted outside Seamus O'Donnell's bar in St Nicholas Street, Bristol, at around 02:00 GMT on 20 January.

He had been enjoying a night out with his partner when he was approached by three men who punched him in the face.

Avon and Somerset Police say they are treating the incident as a hate crime.

Seamus O'Donnell's is an Irish pub known for its welcoming LGBTQ+ environment, hosting a variety of drag shows and karaoke nights throughout the month.

'Completely unacceptable'

Ch Insp Vicks Hayward-Melen said: "The victim was simply enjoying a night out with his partner when he was attacked by three men. This is completely unacceptable and we will not tolerate it.

"We're carrying out numerous enquiries, including speaking with witnesses and reviewing CCTV footage from around the area, to identify those responsible and ensure they're brought to justice for their actions."

The force has issued the following descriptions:

• Suspect one is white, approximately 5ft 6ins to 5ft 8ins, bald with short, brown facial hair. He was wearing a blue buttoned-up jacket, blue jeans and white trainers.

• Suspect two is white, approximately 5ft 9ins, with strawberry-blonde hair with a long fringe. He was wearing white trainers, black jeans, a black puffed coat and a white T-shirt.

• Suspect three is white, around 5ft 9ins, with strawberry-blonde hair. He was wearing white trainers, beige chinos, a black zip top with white T-shirt.

Ch Insp Hayward-Melen said officers were keeping the victim and bar staff updated as the investigation continues.

She added: "Our neighbourhood policing teams continue to work hard to ensure Bristol is a safe place for people to live, work, visit and enjoy, and where everyone can be themselves without fear."