A fight which broke out after a group of men tried to make off with stock from a market stall left two men hospitalised.

One victim was set upon by two men – one wielding a metal bar – after he challenged a member of the group for trying to steal from a stall in Watney Market, Shadwell.

Police are appealing for witnesses after the scuffle, which happened just before 8am on Saturday. Passers-by pulled the attacker from his victim and the group made off.

The second victim received minor injuries. Both men were taken to an east London hospital for treatment, but police said their injuries were not life-threatening.

Police are urging anyone with information to call Tower Hamlets CID on 101, quoting reference 4220860/13, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.