A CARE assistant has been left with serious facial injuries after he was attacked by three men who filmed the violent scenes on a mobile phone. The 37-year-old was walking home from work when he was set upon in a “vicious and unprovoked” assault in an alleyway in Clacton.

A CARE assistant has been left with serious facial injuries after he was attacked by three men who filmed the violent scenes on a mobile phone.

The 37-year-old was walking home from work when he was set upon in a “vicious and unprovoked” assault in an alleyway in Clacton.

The victim - who now faces an operation on a fractured cheekbone - has told detectives the attack was filmed before the men ran off.

Essex Police are appealing for information about the attack, which happened in an alleyway next to Somerfield supermarket in Clacton.

They believe the three attackers had been sitting on the steps of a nearby multi-storey car park as the victim walked by. They then followed him before carrying out the assault.

A police spokesman confirmed last night nothing had been stolen from the man during his ordeal.

Investigating officer, Detective Constable Phil Parrish, said: “This was an horrendous attack on a man who was minding his own business and looking forward to a relaxing evening with his wife.

“This act of mindless violence is further compounded by the fact that they filmed the whole event.

“We would like to trace any witnesses to the assault as well as speaking with anyone who may have been sent the video recording. They can contact us anonymously if they wish.”

The victim, who has not been named by police, was treated at Colchester General Hospital, but will require further specialist surgery to correct his cheekbone.

The attack happened at about 8pm on Saturday and detectives are hoping a member of the public may be able to provide vital information.

The attacker who struck the man was white, aged 18-20, about six-foot and had short, brown hair and a freckly face. There are no further details about the other two men involved

Anyone with information in connection with this attack is urged to contact detectives at Clacton police station on 01255 221312 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.