THIS is the bloodied eye of a 23-year-old man who was hit in the face with a hammer then punched and kicked on the ground by a gang of racist thugs.

The three attackers pounced on him in Blackley, Manchester, for no other reason than the colour of his skin, spitting racist abuse at him with every blow and kick.

Today, as the victim - who does not want to be named - nurses two black eyes, a cut to his head and a gash on his hand. Police are appealing for witnesses to the horrific attack to come forward.

Det Con Kevin Maxwell said: "This is a despicable attack and we are leaving no stone unturned in our search for these youths.

"The victim hailed a black cab on Rochdale Road after he was attacked which took him to a house on Balliol Street, in Cheetham Hill. I am particularly keen to trace this driver.

"There is also a nightclub close to the scene of the attack, which was busy at the time. I'd appeal to anyone who was there to contact me if they have any information."

All three attackers were white. One was of medium build and in his late teens. He had a round face and was wearing black Nike trainers and a black hooded jacket pulled up over his face.

They struck as their victim was walking along Rochdale Road near the junction with White Moss Road, at 11pm on August 4.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact 0161 856 3540 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.