POLICE have released an e-fit image of a gang member who joined a brutal racially aggravated attack on a couple in a city centre.

North Yorkshire Police said six men carried out a sustained attack on the pair in the St Helen's Square area of York at around 4am on Sunday, April 5.

Detectives said the couple, who are from Spain and had left the Blue Fly Café Bar on New Street shortly before the attack, were targeted because they were foreigners.

It is alleged the suspects repeatedly punched and kicked the 24-year-old man for ten minutes.

He suffered a broken jaw, chipped teeth and bruising.

He is now recovering, following treatment at York District Hospital.

His girlfriend, aged 29, was repeatedly pushed to the ground while he was being attacked.

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

The suspects are described as white, aged between 20 and 25, short or shaved hair and spoke with English accents.

Sergeant Adrian Carter, of the York Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: “Extensive enquiries are ongoing trace up to six suspects who believe are from the York area.

"We hope the e-fit will encourage people to come forward with vital information.

"Any detail that could assist the investigation will be treated with the strictest confidence.”

Anyone with information should call 101 or email adrian.carter@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk