A police officer required stitches after he was assaulted by a man in Avebury last night.

Shortly after 10pm, officers were called to a report concerning the welfare of a man who had reportedly jumped in front of a minibus on the A4361 at Avebury.

When officers arrived, the man produced a razor blade from his pocket and when being detained, he used the blade to cut the officer’s hand.

He also attempted to spit at officers and a spit hood was used to restrain him.

A man in his 20s from Devizes was arrested on suspicion of GBH, common assault on an emergency worker and driving whilst unfit through drink or drugs.

Supt Gavin Williams said: “This was a nasty incident which left one of our officers requiring multiple stitches in his hand.

“Assaults on officers of any kind are completely unacceptable – every day, officers are coming to work to protect the public and assaults like this should not be seen as part of the job. It shows nothing but disregard for the officer’s safety and health.”

The man remains in Gablecross custody for further questioning.