DETECTIVES are appealing for information after a neighbourhood police officer was left with a broken nose and damage to his teeth following an assault in Lundwood.

It’s reported that on Monday, at around 8.45pm, the officer was on patrol on Pontefract Road when he encountered a group of youngsters engaging in antisocial behaviour.

As the officer attempted to detain one man, a ‘violent struggle’ took place and he was attacked by the group of six, suffering kicks and punches to his head and face.

He was taken to hospital and received treatment for a broken nose, damage to his teeth and a suspected broken cheek bone.

Detective inspector Mark Cockayne, senior investigating officer, said: “Three men from Barnsley, aged 20, 19 and 14, have been arrested under Section 5 of the Public Order Act and on suspicion of assault on an emergency worker and remain in police custody at this time.

“An investigation is under way and we are now seeking to identify further suspects in connection to this serious, violent attack.

“If you were in the area at the time and saw or heard anything suspicious, please get in touch and tell us what you know.

“If you are uncomfortable talking to the police directly, you can contact Crimestoppers - a completely independent charity - where you can remain 100 per cent anonymous.”

Barnsley T/Superintendent Paul Ferguson added: “This was a serious assault on an officer simply carrying out his neighbourhood duties.

“This is an awful crime committed upon an officer, a colleague with a family, who was working last night to keep the community he serves safe.

“As with all victims of a crime of this nature, he is being supported by our officers and the investigation is continuing at pace to trace those responsible.

“I am aware there is footage of the incident circulating on social media and I understand what has happened will cause concerns in the local community.

“We have increased patrols in the area and this continues today (Wednesday April 27), and I’d encourage anyone who is worried, or anyone who wants to share something, to speak to one of our officers.

“They are there to reassure you and make you feel safe.”

Anyone with information which could help the investigation is urged to call 101 quoting incident number 1001 of April 25.