Content warning: This story may include topics that could make some readers feel uncomfortable. Ryan Winnard and Max Green were walking on Coronation Road in Radcliffe, Bury on the evening of 23 November when they were approached by a group of men.
Both Winnard and Green were then subjected to homophobic abuse before being attacked as they attempted to walk away holding hands.
Green was hit in the back of the head and Winnard was left with a broken nose and fractured cheekbone after being attacked with a hammer.
Speaking to the Manchester Evening News, Winnard said: “Me and my boyfriend were heading home from his grandparents and as we were walking we could hear a group of lads.” The 21-year-old explained that “around five to six” men ran