A man who tried to stop a group of people kicking his car at 3am has been brutally attacked until he lost consciousness.

Police have released an e-fit of a man they are hunting after the assault in Gillingham.

They were called to Franklin Road after reports the 48-year-old victim was woken by banging noises.

A Kent Police spokesman said: "He went outside and saw one of the suspects kicking his car and another van and asked him what he was doing.

"The suspect is then reported to have shouted at him and the victim then received a blow to the back of the head from someone from behind.

"The victim dropped to the floor and was then punched and kicked repeatedly in the head and torso, causing him to lose consciousness."

The victim, said to be extremely shaken by the attack, was taken to Medway Maritime Hospital to be treated for facial injuries.

PC Karen Wigley said: "This was a nasty and thoroughly unprovoked attack that has caused great distress to the victim and his family.

"I would urge anyone who might have witnessed the incident or recognise the person for the e-fit, to please get in contact."

The man in the e-fit is described as white, aged 18 to 25 and about 6ft with medium build and short brown hair. He was wearing an Adidas jumper, jeans and trainers.

The attack happened in the early hours of last Tuesday, but police have only just released details.

Anyone with information is asked to phone PC Wigley on 101, quoting reference XY/9969/13, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.