A SPANISH couple were beaten up in a prolonged and sickening attack – just because they were from another country.

The two were enjoying a night out in the region’s tourism capital when a gang of five men launched their violent assault.

For ten minutes they repeatedly punched and kicked the man as he tried to walk through York city centre.

The 24-year-old suffered serious injuries including a broken jaw, chipped teeth and bruising and had to undergo emergency treatment at York Hospital.

The man’s 29-year-old girlfriend was also targeted – being repeatedly pushed to the ground during the vicious attack.

And it is believed the only reason the gang stopped the violence was because a passing taxi driver came to the couple’s assistance.

The brutal beating happened in the New Street, Coney Street and St Helen’s Square area of the city between 3.40am and 3.50am on Easter Sunday, shortly after the Spanish couple had left the Blue Fly Café Bar and police believe they were picked on simply because they were foreign.

“This is a very disturbing incident which will quite rightly shock the local community in York and those who regard the city as a friendly and safe place to visit,” said PC Sophie Wilson.

“We are doing everything we can investigate this case and bring those responsible to justice.

“We are also providing support to the young couple from Spain who have had their stay tarnished in the most sickening and vicious way.”

The gang were all described as white, aged between 20 and 25, with short or shaved hair and English accents.

One of the men was around 5ft 7in, had short or shaved brown hair, and was wearing a short-sleeved, light-coloured t-shirt with trousers.

As well as a general appeal for witnesses and information about the attack police are also trying to trace the taxi driver who came to the aid of the couple.

PC Wilson said: “The victims are extremely grateful to the taxi driver for having the decency to stop and help when they were in a very frightening situation.

“He may have vital information about the suspects and the circumstances surrounding the incident.”

Contact 101, select option two and ask for Sophie Wilson or email sophie.wilson@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk.

Alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800-555-111.