(Caution: contains distressing imagery) A Belfast gay man was left with serious head injuries following what he believes was a homophobic attack which took place in the middle of the afternoon.

Christopher Haughey was hospitalised with a wound that required five staples when two men assaulted him on the street. Christopher shared with Belfast Live that he thinks the men attacked him after they saw him kissing another man in a pub. After leaving the pub, Christopher went to catch a bus, but when it was delayed, he went around the corner to grab food.

He shared, “I came back round the corner and I was attacked at the lights. It was two people. They pushed me and then hit me with something over the head.”

Christopher continued, “The police brought me to the Royal Victoria Hospital for treatment. I got five staples in my head. It’s embarrassing that it’s happened, it’s humiliating. It really knocks your confidence. It’s embarrassing to lift your hand to anybody.”

Police are currently investigating the incident. Spokesperson Sgt McCartney stated, “Shortly before 2.45pm, it was reported that a man in his 30’s was assaulted at the junction with Great Victoria Street by a man armed with a bag. The man was taken to hospital for head injuries, which are not believed to be serious. Another man was present with the alleged attacker during the incident.

“The male attacker is described as wearing a cap, dark top, grey trousers and carrying a grey handbag. The second male is described as wearing a dark coat with a fur lining on the hood, dark trousers and dark shoes. He is described as having a beard and walking a dark coloured dog.”

The attack on the Belfast gay man is unfortunately just the latest homophobic assault to come to light this week. Only yesterday it was reported that a UK gay couple were set upon by a group of teenagers wearing balaclavas in an attack that also happened in broad daylight.