A kebab van worker was knocked unconscious in a savage attack involving as many as 10 people - before he was robbed of up to £1,500.

The man, in his 40s, was the victim of a frenzied and unprovoked assault outside a West Kingsdown pub.

He was set upon when a crooked-nosed woman using a crutch demanded free food from his van outside the Portobello Inn.

After denying her begging, police said the worker was threatened by a number of people from inside the pub.

He is believed to have been dragged from the food van before being kicked and repeatedly punched.

The assault might have involved as many as 10 people, with the woman's crutch being used to strike the man.

It is reported the attackers stole up to £1,500 in cash from the victim as he lay knocked out on the ground.

"This was a frenzied and entirely unprovoked assault, which left the victim suffering significant visible injuries, including heavy bruising and lacerations..." - DC Stuart Cook

Police said the woman using the crutch is about 40, with long dark hair and a distinctive crooked nose. She was seen driving away in a Vauxhall Zafira with a 57 plate.

Descriptions of two men, believed to be the main offenders in the assault, have also been released.

The first is in his late 30s, about 5ft 11ins with short light brown hair. He was wearing a grey hoodie and blue jeans.

The second man was 5ft 10ins and aged about 40. He had short brown hair and was wearing a sports jacket and jogging bottoms.

A third man who blocked a friend of the victim from stopping the assault is described as large, bald and wearing a white shirt.

The attack happened at about 9.30pm on Friday, May 23, but details have only just been released.

DC Stuart Cook said: "This was a frenzied and entirely unprovoked assault, which left the victim suffering significant visible injuries, including heavy bruising and lacerations.

"I would appeal to anyone with information to call us as soon as possible."

Witnesses or anyone with information is asked to phone police on 01732 379160, quoting reference YY/10147/14, or Kent Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.