THREE Iranian men were beaten with sticks and metal bars by a gang of about 15 youths during a sickening racial attack in a Southampton park.

The attackers hurled racial abuse at the men while hitting and kicking them, leaving them all requiring hospital treatment.

All three victims - a father and his two sons - had been playing football in the play park area around Tangmere Drive in Lordshill when they were attacked by the youths.

The 45-year-old father suffered a head injury after being hit by a metal bar while his two grown-up sons received cuts and bruises.

They managed to eventually run from the scene to safety and the police were alerted by local witnesses.

Police are appealing for any other witnesses who saw the unprovoked attack to come forward.

Officers from Southampton's Public Protection and Investigation Unit would like to speak to anyone who has information about the assault, which happened on Monday at about 8pm.

The unit can be contacted at Shirley police station on 0845 045 4545 or alternatively people can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.