A man was beaten unconscious after he refused to hand his phone and wallet over to a mugger.

Police say the man was attacked shortly after 10pm on Monday July 18 in Eden Road, Walthamstow.

The 48-year-old was approached by a man walking towards him who demanded he give him some of his belongings.

When the victim refused, he was punched in the face several times, leaving him with facial fractures including to his eye socket.

He lost consciousness and was helped to safety by passers-by.

The suspect fled the scene empty-handed and the victim was later taken to hospital where he will require ongoing treatment because of his injuries.

Police have issued an appeal for witnesses to come forward, although no description of the suspect has been released.

Detective Constable Alexandra Varga said: "We would like to hear from anyone who witnessed this robbery in Eden Road.

"This was a completely unprovoked attack and the victim has suffered a number of serious head injuries. We need witnesses with information, no matter how small, to help catch the person responsible and ensure they are unable to do this again."

Anyone with any information is asked to call police on 101, quoting CAD 8664/18JUL or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.