TWO men were assaulted in what is believed to be a homophobic attack.

Officers in a patrolling police car were flagged down by a passing taxi driver who told them two men had just been attacked in King's Road, Brighton, on the south pavement opposite the Queen's Hotel.

Officers found the two men, one aged 23 from Ruislip in north west London, and one aged 22 from Brighton and they were taken to the Royal Sussex County Hospital to be treated for face and head injuries.

The 23-year old sustained a fractured eye socket in the attack at 5am on Bank Holiday Monday.

Two men were arrested at the scene after a struggle with officers on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm, causing actual bodily harm and assault on police.

After being interviewed the men, both aged 18 and from Crawley, were released on police bail until July 5 while enquiries continue.

Officers have described the assault as a "vicious attack".

Detective Constable Sarah Townsend said: "We would like to speak to that taxi driver, and to anyone else who saw what happened.

"A homophobic motive for the attacks is one of our principal lines of enquiry."

"If you can help please contact us via 101@sussex.pnn.police.ukor call on 101 quoting serial 213 of 02/05. You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."