A HOMELESS man was punched in the face and attacked with a chair during a “despicable” attack in Southend High Street.

Essex Police has confirmed two men were arrested on suspicion of affray following the incident, but were released and face no further action.

On Friday, footage of the incident – which showed one attacker punch the homeless man and another throw a chair at him outside McDonald’s – was shared on social media and viewed thousands of times Despite confirming that two men were released, Essex Police has appealed for any witnesses to come forward following the incident on May 24.

According to reports on social media, the victim was “shouting at people” and “throwing glass bottles” outside McDonald’s and opposite Molo Lounge prior to the incident.

Councillor for community safety, Martin Terry, condemned the attack, stating attacks like these “have no place” in Southend.

He said: “I think any behaviour like this is despicable and this type of violence has no place in a civilised society.

“We can’t accept this sort of behaviour and although these things aren’t common, they do happen and need to be stamped out.

“I think any kind of violence is unacceptable and even if he was behaving badly, people should have called the police, not attacked him.

“I think he could also have some mental health problems, in which case he should be helped. Anyone with any information should approach the police immediately.”

Essex Police have confirmed that an investigation is still in place and have urged witnesses to come forward.

A spokesperson from Essex Police said: “We did send officers to the scene and two men were arrested on suspicion of affray.

“They have been released and no further action is being taken in relation to them, but we know a lot of people were there, so we would ask anyone who has information or footage to get in touch and quote incident 42/80534/24.