Man killed on campus

A former college student was kicked to death in an apparently motiveless attack after celebrating a friend's birthday.

Christopher Yates, 30, was attacked by a gang of up to 10 people in a university campus car park. Mr Yates, a data inputter from a temping agency, had been out celebrating with some friends when he walked onto the campus of the University of East London in Barking.

The victim, who had read computer studies at the university between 1992 and 1996, was knocked to the ground and kicked to death. Mr Yates, who was single, lived with his mother in Barking and his family were said to be devastated by his death.

Detective Chief Inspector Terry Sharpe of Scotland Yard's Specialist Crime Directorate said: "This man was viciously attacked and savagely beaten. At the moment it appears to have been a motiveless assault.

"I am urging anyone who saw or heard anything or has since heard anyone talking about the attack to come forward and speak to us."

Seven people, including one woman, were arrested shortly after the attack, although all but one have been released on bail. None of those arrested were students at the university.

Police say Mr Yates had been out celebrating a friend's birthday on Saturday night.

After walking his friend to a bus stop in Longbridge Road opposite the university and ensuring she boarded the bus home safely, he then turned and, for an unknown reason, walked into the university grounds.

He was assaulted within minutes at about 4.40am.

Mr Yates's family are too upset to speak about their loss. His sister-in-law Kathleen Yates, who works in the media, said: "We don't want to make any comment at the moment."

Detectives believe about 10 people were at the car park at the time of the attack. In recent weeks it had become known as a meeting place for local people.

A post mortem found Mr Yates died of facial injuries.

Anyone with information should call 020 8345 3734 or ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.