ESSEX Police are investigating after two men were assaulted in Harlow.

Officers were called at around 3.35am today (Sunday, September 4) after reports of an altercation outside the William Aylmer pub on Kitson Way.

Witnesses reported two men, who are both Polish and in their 30s, were attacked by a group of four or five males.

Officers are treating this as a potential hate crime.

One of the men suffered a cut to his head while the other suffered a broken nose.

Both victims were treated at Princess Alexandra Hospital and have now been discharged.

Supt Trevor Roe said: “This was a vicious and horrible attack.

“Although we are considering this matter as a potential hate crime, it is not being linked with the attack at The Stow last weekend.

“I want to reassure the public and the community in Harlow we are treating this very seriously and do not tolerate assaults of any kind.

“Harlow is a strong and resilient community but I understand the concerns that recent events will cause.

“There will be an increased number of visible policing patrols in Harlow to both reassure and protect the community.

“The attack took place in the town centre outside a popular pub and we believe there will have been people who witnessed it.

“If you know anything about this attack I urge you to come forward as your information may be vital to bringing the perpetrators to justice”.

Anyone with information is asked to contact DI Louise Metcalfe at Harlow CID on 101.

People can also give information to the independent crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via an anonymous online form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.