Police have released CCTV images of men they would like to speak to after a man had part of his ear bitten off.
Officers were called to reports of a serious assault in High Street in Colchester at about 5am on Sunday, April 28.
A spokesman for Essex Police said the victim was approached by three people who assaulted him close to The Castle pub in the north Essex city centre.
During the assault, the man had part of his ear bitten off, a police spokesman said.
He is still being treated at hospital for his injuries and requires reconstructive plastic surgery.
Police have released pictures of three young men they would like to speak to in connection with the incident.
Anyone with any information is being asked to contact Essex Police quoting the crime reference number 42/67667/24.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here