Manhunt after British soldier in uniform suffers fractured skull in brutal street attack

Detectives have launched a manhunt after a soldier in formal mess uniform suffered a fractured skull in an attack in central London.
CCTV image dated issued by the Metropolitan Police of a man they wish to identify after a 28-year-old soldier, dressed in his mess uniform, was attacked. Metropolitan Police/PA WireCCTV image dated issued by the Metropolitan Police of a man they wish to identify after a 28-year-old soldier, dressed in his mess uniform, was attacked. Metropolitan Police/PA Wire
CCTV image dated issued by the Metropolitan Police of a man they wish to identify after a 28-year-old soldier, dressed in his mess uniform, was attacked. Metropolitan Police/PA Wire

The soldier, 28, was also left with injuries to his face, a fractured cheekbone and eye sockets and a broken nose, the Metropolitan Police said in an appeal launched on Thursday.

He required extensive surgery following the attack close to Piccadilly Circus.

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The force released a CCTV still of a man they are trying to trace after the attack at 3.20am on Thursday January 31 on Haymarket, at the junction with Coventry Street.

In the picture he is bearded with short, dark hair and appears to be wearing a black sweater and blue jeans or trousers.

Anyone who recognises the man should call Westminster CID on 101, quoting Cad 675/31Jan, Tweet @MetCC or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

By Lewis Pennock, PA