POLICE have released an image of a man wanted in connection to a suspected homophobic and transphobic attack in Bristol.

A man, aged in his 20s, was reportedly subjected to verbal abuse, before being pushed and then punched in the face, while at Turtle Bay. 

The incident - which has been described by police as 'unprovoked' and 'vicious' - happened in Cheltenham Road, Montpelier at around 3.30pm on Saturday, July 29. 

The victim suffered injuries, including to his face and body, which required treatment at hospital.

Gazette Series: Avon and Somerset Police have released this picture of a man they want to speak to in connection with the attack Avon and Somerset Police have released this picture of a man they want to speak to in connection with the attack (Image: Avon and Somerset Police)

The man in the image is described as white, in his late teens or early twenties, about 5ft 10ins, of medium build, with medium-length brown hair which was shaved on the side and longer on the top. 

He was wearing blue jeans and a black t-shirt.

Investigating officer PC Matthew Lawson said: “This was a vicious and unprovoked assault which, due to the language used by the offender, is being treated as a hate crime.

“This is a worrying incident and we’re ensuring the victim gets any support he may need.

“We want to speak to anyone who recognises the man in the image, or who may have witnessed or even filmed the incident taking place.”

If you can help, please call us on 101 and give the call handler the reference number 5223182231.

Gazette Series: The incident took place at Turtle Bay in Bristol in July The incident took place at Turtle Bay in Bristol in July (Image: Google Maps)