DETECTIVES have released an image of a man they wish to trace in connection with a brutal assault in Ealing, together with an image of the injured victim.
Richard Merry, 65, was savagely beaten outside Eden Court in Station Road, Ealing W5 between around 2am and 3am on Tuesday, 13 September.
He was found lying on an area of grass by workmen at about 12:30pm that day.
He sustained injuries which included a laceration to his left ear, cuts to his head and face, damage to eye sockets and cracked ribs.
The victim has also suffered brain injuries.
More than two months after the attack, Mr Merry remains in hospital.
He is a 'born and bred' Londoner, from Wimbledon, single and a retired painter and decorator.
CCTV enquiries have shown the victim with an unknown male, appearing to have an argument near to Eden Court.
Detectives from Ealing CID are appealing for information from anyone who can identify the man shown in the image, or anyone who may have been with Mr Merry prior to the incident.
DC Joe Cato of Ealing CID said: "Mr Merry was the victim of a vicious assault and then left outside to be found hours later.
"He has agreed to be named, and for an image of his injuries to be released, to support our appeal for witnesses and information.
"I would urge anyone who can recognise the man shown in the CCTV still, or has other information that may assist the inquiry, to call police."
Anyone with information that may assist the investigation should call Ealing CID via 101.
To remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit www.crimestoppers-uk.org
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