A senior British diplomat mugged while walking through a cemetery has lost sight in one eye, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) said on Sunday.

Bermuda's new Governor George Fergusson had surgery on his left eye yesterday after being attacked in Hammersmith Cemetery, west London, but his sight could not be saved.

The 56-year-old received other facial injuries in the attack on Friday night but managed to walk to a nearby hospital. A small quantity of cash was stolen.

An FCO spokesman said Mr Fergusson, who lives in Lambeth with his wife Margaret, was still expected to take up the post of Governor on the tiny British overseas territory next month.

He has previously served as Governor of the Pitcairn Islands and high commissioner to New Zealand and Samoa.

A Metropolitan Police spokesman said: "Police are appealing for information and witnesses after a man was attacked in Hammersmith.

"The 56-year-old man was assaulted and robbed at around 7.30pm on Friday, April 20, while walking in Margravine Cemetery and Park, also known as Hammersmith Cemetery.

"The victim made his own way to hospital."

The spokesman added: "A small quantity of cash was taken and, at this early stage, officers are satisfied that robbery was the only motive.

"Officers from Hammersmith and Fulham Priority Crime Unit are investigating the incident.

"The suspect is described as a black male, believed to be aged between 25 and 35, and around 5ft 10in in height. He was wearing a dark hooded top and dark glasses.

"There has been no arrests and inquiries continue.

"Anyone with any information that may assist police should call Hammersmith and Fulham CID on 020 8246 2413 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."