A 36-year-old man is recovering in hospital after being stabbed in chest and leg in ‘unprovoked’ attack in Camden.

A 36-year-old man is recovering in hospital after being stabbed in a suspected homophobic attack, in Camden.

The man had spent Sunday evening with friends in the The Black Cap cabaret and dance bar in Camden High Street. Shortly after leaving the venue with two friends, he was approached by a group of four black men. One of the suspects asked him: “Are you gay?”

The man ignored him and the suspect walked off. But minutes later he returned and stabbed the victim in his chest and leg. The attack happened at 2.15am on Monday morning, near Camden Lock Bridge.

The victim was taken to a Central London hospital where his condition is described as stable.

The suspects are described as four black men aged between 20 and 25.

Detective Inspector Les Newman, who is leading the investigation, said: “This was a cowardly and unprovoked attack on three innocent males making their way home. “This is being treated as a homophobic incident, and the investigation team is working closely with the local community to identify those responsible.

“We urge anyone who was in the area and may have seen something to contact Camden police on 020-8733 6474 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

Additional police patrols are being conducted within the area by Safer Neighbourhoods officers. Police Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) Liaison officers have visited local venues to reassure the community.

Members of the LGBT community who wish to speak with police or report a crime can do so via a dedicated Police LGBT Liaison Officer - freephone 0800 328 2509 - or anonymously via the Camden LGBT Forum on 020 7470 8760.