The man who hit Leona Lewis yesterday has been charged with assault.

The “Bleeding Love” singer had been autographing copies of her new book, Dreams, in London when the 6’ 5” suspect punched her in the head.

The man, who has since been identified as Peter Kopwalczyk, waited patiently in line to speak to Leona. When the 29-year-old reached the front of the line, he lashed out. Five members of Lewis’ security team then quickly jumped on Kopwalczyk and pinned him down.

As Leona ran away, Peter shouted, “I love you Leona!” The 24-year-old responded: “I don’t love you!”

“It was horrendous. She let out a piercing scream and grabbed her temple. Security piled on this guy and Leona just started running,” witness Emily Rose said. “This bloke looked like a nutcase. He really walloped Leona. She must have been in agony,” fan Steve Caris added.

Boyfriend Lou Al-Chamaa, who accompanied Leona and her mother to the event, had to be physically restrained as he attempted to confront her attacker. Lewis was immediately taken to London’s Harley Street Hospital where she was checked for concussion. She was due to appear on a UK TV show in the evening, but pulled out as she was too upset.

“She’s very shaken. She keeps asking why anyone would want to hurt her. Leona’s the sweetest, most mild-mannered girl. It was like kicking a kitten,” a source explained.

Simon Cowell, who mentored Leona when she won the 2006 series of UK TV talent show The X Factor, has called the star to offer his support. Sharon Osbourne, who was a judge on Leona’s series of the show, was also furious to hear of the incident. “He should have the s**t kicked out of him for that. She is the most lovely, genuine person ever. If I saw him, I would kick the s**t out of him,” Osbourne said.

“Leona is obviously shocked after yesterday but is OK. She would like to convey her thanks to everyone for their kind messages and support,” Lewis’ spokesman said.

Peter is scheduled to appear in court on Oct. 26.  He is currently undergoing a mental evaluation.