A man was knocked to the grounded and punched in the face during a homophobic incident outside an Oxford pub.

The 22-year-old was standing outside the Castle Tavern, in Paradise Street, at about 10.35pm on Wednesday while smoking with friends when he heard two men shouting homophobic abuse.

They crossed the road towards him and attacked the man before fleeing along Old Greyfriars Street.

The attacker was in his mid-20s, about 5ft 8in, with brown cropped hair and of muscular build. He was wearing a grey T-shirt with a Union flag on the front.

The man with him was in his early 20s, 5ft 11in, with cropped hair. He was wearing a baggy jacket.

Anyone with information should call Pc Sarah Piddington on 08458 505505.