A MAN was left needing surgery on a broken jaw after he was attacked by an eight-strong gang at a nightspot.

The victim, a 39-year-old man from Kent, had been enjoying at night out at the Circus Tavern on Arterial Road, Purfleet when the attack happened.

There was a row and the men launched their atatck, kicking the victim as he lay on the ground. He suffered a broken jaw and severe bruising to his face and head.

The man remains at the Royal London Hospital after undergoing surgery.

The Circus Tavern had also been playing host to a fundraise for murdered soldier Lee Rigby at the time of the incident, which happened at 1.30am on Saturday.

Witnesses can contact Det Con Tony Miller at Grays CID on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 888111.