restaurant shortly after being brutally attacked by a gang of thugs in Hamilton.

They are believed to have been knocked about repeatedly with bats and crash helmets in the late-night assault.

Last night one of the men was still in hospital, with a suspected eye injury.

Yesterday Police appeared to be putting a block on information about the assault.

But The Royal Gazette understands the incident occurred around the City Hall parking lot late on Saturday night.

The pair -- bruised and bleeding -- went afterwards into the recently-opened Shutters restaurant in Burnaby Street.

One of the restaurant's owners, Mr. John Roach, said he saw the men at around midnight.

"They were injured, and I thought it best to take them to hospital.'' He added he also alerted the Police.

Mr. Roach said one of the men was still in hospital, and he had been to see him.

"We had a conversation, that's all I can say.'' Mr. Roach told The Royal Gazette both Americans were about 30 years old, worked for Bermuda Elevator Co. Ltd, and had been on a job at Shutters.

"They are good guys and very well thought off. I just hope there is a just prosecution. I don't know why anyone would do such a thing.'' Mr. Roach said he did not know any details about the assault, and he was reluctant to speak too much.

"I know it's a Police matter, and it's being investigated. I suggest you speak to the Police.'' But despite repeated attempts throughout yesterday Police were unable to provide any information, and appeared reluctant to make inquiries.

Late last night a Police spokesman said he had no knowledge of any assault.

"I have no record of it,'' he added.

Dr. Edward Schultz, head of the emergency department at King Edward hospital, last night confirmed, however, two people had been brought in on Saturday night after being assaulted.

"Police should give you a certain amount of information,'' he said.

The Americans are understood to have been living in rented property in Tatems Hill, Pembroke, belonging to landlord Mr. Alfred Brookes.

Yesterday Mr. Brookes hung up the phone when contacted by The Royal Gazette , although he confirmed two Americans were living at his property.