A spate of sickening attacks on Hackney's Jewish community is being investigated by police.

Officers believe that the same suspects have been carrying out the attacks on members of the Jewish community in the Stamford Hill area of north London.

Last week a 23-year-old victim was punched and kicked as he walked passed the Yeten Lev boys school in Casenove Road. The suspects approached the victim, kicked his arm and punched him in the face.

Detectives have now linked this assault with another seven similar incidents against Jewish men. They include: A 24 year-old man who was attacked as he walked along Kyverdale Road in Stamford Hill. The suspects approached the victim and punched him in the face before running away.

A 15-year-old boy who was attacked outside Hadley Court in Casenove Road. His hat was knocked off and he was kicked to the ground.

A 14-year-old boy was attacked as he tried to make a phone call at a public telephone box. Police said the teenager noticed a green vehicle pull up beside him and saw a number of people leave the vehicle. They approached the victim and punched and kicked him.

On January 5 a 19-year-old man was eating in a restaurant in Oldhill Street when a suspect walked into the venue, made an offensive Nazi gesture and left.

Also on January 5 a 49-year-old man was headbutted in Leweston Place. Later on the same day a 21-year-old victim had his glasses knocked off by a gang who also tried to steal the coat he was wearing.

On January 7 two 18-year-old friends noticed a green VW vehicle pull up alongside them. Four males got out of the car and approached the men. One victim was punched in the face and the other managed to escape.

Police said the group involved are black and Asian men. They were seen during the majority of the attacks to be driving a Green VW Golf with a possible registration plate of M947 GPP.

Detective Chief Inspector Ian Chiverton,of Hackney Police, said: "Hackney police have identified a number of anti-Semitic related incidents in the borough and have been working closely with the local community to identify those responsible.

"Several briefings have already been delivered to officers and members of local community to advise them of the incidents and to inform them of measures already undertaken."

Now high visibility patrols have been placed in the Stamford Hill area and police said more are planned for the next four weeks.

Officers are appealing for anyone who may have any information about these attacks to contact the Incident Room at Stoke Newington Police station on 020 7275 3281; alternatively, to remain anonymous, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.