A MAN has suffered life changing injuries after his jaw was 'left in fragments' following a brutal attack.

The 28-year-old man was enjoying a Christmas meal with his work colleagues at the Joy Fook Chinese restaurant, in Ongar Road, Pilgrims Hatch when he was punched as he was standing outside.

The victim will have to have plates fitted to his jaw, with the affects certain to be life-changing.

A number of other people were eating at the restaurant on the evening of Saturday, December 8, including business parties from Thurrock, and police are appealing for those people, which happened at about 12.05am on Sunday, December 8.

A 25-year-old man from Harlow was arrested in connection with the attack and bailed until March 3, 2014, pending further enquiries.

Investigating officer, Dc Stephen Baker, said: "The victim has suffered appalling injuries as a result of this attack, which left his jaw in fragments.

" I’m aware that people often travel to the Joy Fook restaurant from long distances, so I really need to speak to anyone who went there that night and hasn’t yet spoken to police.

" I would also like to hear from any passers-by who may have witnessed what happened.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact Dc Baker, or his colleagues at Loughton CID, on 101.

Alternatively, call independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.