Two men were punched and subjected to vile homophobic abuse as they walked in Liverpool city centre.
The victims were set upon by a group of three men and two women, aged in their late 20s, near to Waterstones, College Lane, Liverpool One.
One of the victims suffered a cut to his mouth, while another was punched in the face by one of the group, some of whom were shouting vile homophobic abuse.
The suspects then ran off.
Detectives said they are investigating the incident, which occurred at around 3.15am on Friday, as a hate crime and are supporting both victims after the "disgusting" attack.
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Detective Inspector Nick Suffield said: "We're in the early stages of this investigation but to be assaulted and targeted in such a way is abhorrent and we'll be looking to support both victims as our enquiries continue.
"Due to the disgusting verbal abuse the victims were subjected to, we’re treating this as a hate crime and are determined to find those responsible and remove them from the streets. If you were in the area and saw heard or captured anything please come forward and we will take action."
Enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances.
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Police added: "Anyone who witnessed the incident, was in the area at the time, or has any information is urged to contact us via 101, our social media desk @MerPolCC on Twitter with reference 136 of 28 May.
"Alternatively, you can leave information anonymously and for free with Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. You can also use their online form anonymously: https://crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information/give-information-online."
