A 38-year-old man is still receiving intensive care treatment more than three weeks after being set upon during a vicious gang attack in Boscombe.

The victim, who is from Poole and has not been identified, was walking along Centenary Way towards the Sovereign Centre car park after leaving the Opera House, when about 10 men assaulted him.

He suffered serious internal injuries and head wounds. His condition was yesterday described as stable and improving.

His male companion escaped injury during the attack which happened between 3am and 3.20am on Sunday, May 3.

Detectives are renewing their appeal for witnesses and have released CCTV images taken outside the Opera House in a bid to track down the attackers.

DC Neil Wright of Bournemouth CID said: “This was a nasty attack and we want to ensure, for the victim’s sake, that justice is done and those responsible for his serious injuries are caught.

“Following extensive enquiries, I am now able to release CCTV footage showing a group of people I am eager to speak with.

“They were caught on camera leaving the Opera House. At this stage we are keeping an open mind as to what may have triggered the attack.

“I would urge those pictured and anyone who recognises any of them to contact me, in confidence, as soon as possible.

“It could be that one of those pictured has information which will help me find out exactly what happened in the early hours of May 3. I’d also urge anyone who witnessed an incident in which two men were set upon by a larger group or anyone who has any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, about those responsible to get in touch.”

If you can assist with the investigation call Dorset police in confidence on 01202 222222 or the free, anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555111.