A woman has spoken out after being badly hurt in an unprovoked suspected homophobic attack.

Anita Sillick suffered a broken tooth, cut lip and bruising.

A prominent member of the community in Temple Hill, Dartford, who lives in Keyes Road with her fiancée, Annie, she had confronted a man after he hurled abuse at her from over the road.

She said the shouting had been so loud her elderly neighbour had come out to see what was wrong and she wanted to ask the man to be quiet.

However, she claims that, when she approached him, he punched her in the face, causing her to fall down.

Miss Sillick also alleged the attacker kicked her while she was on the ground and used homophobic language towards her, making her think her sexuality was the motive.

The 46-year-old, who has been a member of the residents’ forum and takes part in monthly litter picks, said: “He pummelled my face and left me badly shaken and with cuts and bruises.

"But if I hadn’t shielded my face I’m in no doubt it could have been much worse.

“My family have lived on the estate since it was built and in all the time I’ve been here I’ve had no trouble.

“It’s left me feeling very anxious and, while I do still go out to walk the dog, it’s not the same.

“I’d like to thank all the people who have sent cards, flowers and left lovely messages on Facebook. It really does mean so much.”

Police were called to the incident in Keyes Road at 9.40pm on Monday last week.

• A 61-year-old man from Dartford has been arrested on suspicion of assault. He has since been released on bail until Wednesday, December 27.