A history teacher says he is too frightened to go out in Herne Bay at night after suffering a vicious, unprovoked attack which left him with broken cheekbones.

Tim Platt was badly beaten by two thugs after being lured out of a pub by claims his car was being vandalised.

But when he got outside, he was beaten to the ground, repeatedly punched in the face and robbed of his phone, digital camera and car keys.

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He was so badly hurt that he needed reconstructive surgery to his face and is still recovering at home in the town three weeks after the attack.

The assault happened on October 2 outside the Divers Arms, where Mr Platt, a guitarist and singer, was due to play a gig.

"I just don’t understand how someone can use that level of violence just to take my phone and a camera, neither of which were particularly valuable" -Tim Platt

The 52-year-old, who came to England from Perth, Australia, a year ago and teaches history, says he has travelled all over the world and never before been assaulted.

He said: “I was just setting up my gear in the pub when a chap, who seemed quite friendly, said some kids were spray-painting my car. I went outside with him and noticed another man following behind but just thought he was coming to help.

"But as soon as we got outside I felt a big bang on the back of my head which knocked me to the ground and I briefly passed out.

"When I came to, the first man was on top of me and smashing me in the face with his fists, demanding my phone.

"He literally tore the pocket off my jacket to get at it and also took my camera and keys, before the pair of them ran off.

"I lay there covered in blood and feeling quite stunned, not quite believing what had just happened to me.

Video: Teacher Tim Platt speaks out about the vicious attack

“I staggered back into the pub and must have looked quite a mess because immediately people came to help and called an ambulance and the police.”

Mr Platt, who lives in Oxenden Park Drive and teaches at Charles Dickens School, Broadstairs, said: "I would like to thank passers-by and the pub staff for their kindness and help because I felt pretty awful.

"Now I feel too frightened to go out in the town at night, which is a pity because I’m a Liverpool supporter and like to watch the football in the pub.

"I just don’t understand how someone can use that level of violence just to take my phone and a camera, neither of which were particularly valuable.

"I was in quite a lot of pain afterwards and had to undergo surgery on one side of my face, where the cheekbone was badly damaged.”

He added: "It’s a bit frustrating that the police investigation seems to have dragged on and I have had to email them several times to find out what’s happening.

"I know they are busy but I was told the case had been passed to another officer and then that he had gone on holiday.

"But anyone who can use that level of violence needs to be caught quickly before someone else gets hurt."

Police spokesman Jon Green said: "Police have spoken to a number of witnesses and inquiries are ongoing."