Police investigating night-time attacks in Bristol park
They're treating the incidents as linked and believe they could be homophobic in nature
Police are investigating a series of attacks on men in a Bristol park over the past 10 days which officers believe could be homophobic in nature.
Avon and Somerset Police said the incidents, in the city's Castle Park, had occurred between November 30 and December 5.
In the latest incident, a man in his 30s was struck to the head and attended hospital for medical treatment.
?A 32-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of assault in connection with the incident and released on police bail.
Detective Inspector Alistair Norman, the senior investigating officer, said: "While we remain open-minded about the direction of this investigation and the motivation for the assaults, we are currently treating these incidents as linked.
"We've made one arrest and are continuing to speak to the victims, review CCTV footage and carry out other inquiries to identify the offenders responsible for these concerning incidents."
A spokesman for the force, speaking about the attacks, said "officers are concerned they may be homophobic in nature".
On November 30, two unknown males approached a man aged in his 40s and shone a light in his eyes before striking him to the head at around 1.15am.
The victim sustained injuries to his wrist, back, shoulder and head.
Two reports of similar incidents were made in the early hours of December 3, between 12.30am and 1.30am.
Both men, aged in their 20s and 40s, are not believed to have required medical treatment for their injuries.
The force spokesman said descriptions of the suspects were limited due to the time of night but they are believed to be two males - one white - who were wearing face coverings and dark clothing.
CCTV footage has been examined while interviews and local inquiries have taken place.
Members of the public are urged to remain "vigilant" in the area during the hours of darkness, the police spokesman added.
Chief Inspector John Shaddick said: "We understand this update will be distressing for members of our community. There is no place for hate crime in our city and we will not tolerate such behaviour.
"We are taking matters of public safety in and around Castle Park, and the wider city centre, very seriously and are working closely and engaging with local LGBTQ+ leaders.
"We have implemented a number of measures, including the use of our mounted team, dog units and increased regular foot patrols, to enhance visibility, engagement and to deter further criminal activity.
"We also continue to work collaboratively with our partners at Bristol City Council, local businesses and with CCTV operators to ensure a timely police response to incidents, and we remain in regular contact with other community leaders and groups to provide reassurance and updates."
Anyone with information is asked to contact the force on 101, quoting reference number 5225345559.
Detectives are keen to hear from a potential witness to the first assault, who is described by one of the victims as a man of Indian descent with short hair and aged in his 30s.