A MAN is still unable to return to work FIVE months after he was attacked outside a popular Thurrock nightspot.

An Asian man from Kent suffered serious after he was set upon by EIGHT white men outside the Circus Tavern.

The 39-year-old was with three friends and had been in the club in Purfleet where a fundraiser was being held for murdered soldier Lee Rigby.

Police are working on the theory that the man was singled out because of his assumed connection with a particular religious group but say it has not yet been suggested the attack is racially or religiously aggravated.

After being kept in the Royal London Hospital for three days, he required extensive facial surgery. As a result of the pain and trauma he has suffered - the man who wishes to remain anonymous - has been unable to return to work.

The attack happened at 1.30am on Saturday, August 31. The victim's friends were also assaulted but their injuries were less severe.

Police have renewed their appeal for information.

Investigating officer DC Tony Miller said: "There were many customers and staff around at the time of the assaults but so far police have very little information with which to progress this case.

"Someone at the venue on August 31 knows why this has happened and who is responsible for this and we appeal to those people to come forward.

"The families of the victims are deeply upset by this incident and the most seriously injured victim has not been able to return to work, which has had major financial implications for his family.

"We want to hear from anyone at that event who might have seen anything of the assault or people being ejected from the club by the doorstaff."