TWO men were attacked in Torquay town centre by a gang of six after an argument over music.

One of the victims, a local man aged 25, underwent surgery for facial injuries after his head was stamped on by one of the offenders.

The attack, being investigated by detectives, happened in Union Street between 3am and 3.30am on Saturday.

The badly hurt victim was taken to Torbay Hospital where two operations were carried out on injuries to his broken jaw. He was discharged from hospital on Monday.

His friend, who escaped serious harm, said: "We were having a good-natured chat about music when some of the group took offence at what we said.

"My friend got knocked to the ground and his head was stamped on.

"I got chinned once, but I can look after myself because I'm quite big and do martial arts.

"I had to pick my friend up off the ground."

Footage from CCTV cameras which cover the area where the attack happened — between River Island and McDonald's — are being examined by police.

The friend, who gave his name but did not want it printed, said they had spent the evening at the Bohemia club.

"We drank about three pints each. The six were hammered," he said.

He revealed that the names of those allegedly involved had been passed to Torquay CID.

Det Con Dan Ritson appealed for information from any independent witnesses.

They are being asked to ring 08452 777444, quoting crime reference FT/10/6251.

"This would appear to be a very nasty assault which we will investigate thoroughly," said Det Con Ritson.

"It's believed about three of the six were directly involved in the incident."