February 5, 2001 17:07: A MINICAB firm boss is to sue the victim of a violent race attack after he shattered a shop window with his elbow while being attacked by three men.

Admitting the injuries of the victim, who is black, were serious, operations manager Michael Lane told the News Shopper he felt the victim from Forest Hill, should still cough up £800 for the damage.

Police are trying to locate three men in connection with the 11.30pm attack near Express Cars, East Street, Bromley on January 19.

The victim was smashed over the head with an alco-pop bottle, racially abused and kicked while he lay struggling on he floor.

Luckily, the bottle stayed in one piece, avoiding more serious injuries and certain hospitalisation, though the man was treated by a police doctor for severe facial bruising.

Mr Lane said: "It is certainly possible the man smashed the window after he was dazed in the fight.

"I'm surprised he wasnt dead.

"But I still think he did it to get attention for himself and should pay for the damage he caused."

He added: "I saw him do it on CCTV cameras installed by my firm and we shall be pursing our claim in court."

The police say they are investigating the damaged window and confirm that CCTV records show three suspects attacking the victim while he was waiting for a cab with two of his friends.

One suspect is described as white, 22, 5ft 9ins with cropped light brown hair.

The second suspect is described as having a dark European appearance, 23, 6ft tall with a shaved head.

There is no description available for the third suspect.

Anyone with information relating to the incident should call DC Nigel Chater on 020 8284 8052.

Attempts to contact the beaten man for comment about Mr Lane's intentions, were unsuccessful.

Mike Addelman