POLICE have launched a helpline for victims of hate crime as a series of attacks on gay men on Dartford Heath are investigated.

The heath has been a popular area for outdoor sexual liaisons for many years.

But in the past month there have been a series of attacks on gay men on the Rochester Way heath linked to an increase in meetings for sex during the summer months.

One incident, reported on a gay website, told how a man was held-up at gunpoint by two men in camouflage tops, before being hit over the head and robbed.

He explained how the offenders, dressed in jeans, white trainers and who wore stockings over their heads, had ordered him to empty his pockets.

Although the man, going under the pseudonym Polo Mint, reported the attack to police he refused to give his real name.

North Kent police have since confirmed it is investigating a separate homophobic attack on the heath, which also took place in July.

And it has received reports of two other robberies or assaults in the area, which were not at the time linked to anti-gay attacks but which police believe may have been homophobic.

Last week, as part of a long-planned bid to encourage better reporting of hate crime, the police launched a telephone line to help victims report their attacks.

The Kent Homophobic Incident Reporting Line is a free 24-hour service where victims can speak to trained operators, who offer information and support.

Joseph Galliano, deputy editor of Gay Times magazine, condemned the attacks and encouraged victims to come forward.

He said: "Everyone has the right to safety whatever they are doing and should go to the police.

"People must know it is safer to report a crime and to remember the police will be looking at you as someone being attacked, not as a criminal."

The police also use the True Vision scheme, which allows members of the public to report incidents to police in writing without giving their name and address.

The crime reporting packs have been available since May last year and contain advice and information for anonymous witnesses and victims.

To report a homophobic attack, call 0800 328 9162 or obtain a True Vision pack from any library or police station.