Victim loses eye after gang attack

A man lost an eye after being beaten in a racist attack by about 15 boys.

The teenagers, who were white and aged between 14 and 15, beat the black man to the ground as he walked past them in the street.

The 32-year-old is still in hospital a week after the attack in Rotherhithe last Thursday. His eye could not be saved despite a series of operations.

Doctors say the man's injuries are not life threatening but his condition is so poor police have been unable to interview him.

A Met spokesman said the attack was being treated as racially motivated. The area, on the route of a BNP march over Easter, has recently been the scene of several other racist attacks.

Inspector Mark Johnson said police had increased local patrols. Eight boys have been arrested and bailed for a variety of offences in the area. Witnesses are asked to call the police community safety unit on 020 7232 6195.