A VOLUNTEER police officer was seriously injured after being kicked, headbutted and stamped on during a “disgusting” assault in Colchester.

Two teenagers and a man have been arrested following a disturbance involving a group of men in High Street, at around 2.15am on Sunday.

Whilst dealing with the disturbance, one Special Constable was violently assaulted.

He is currently in hospital awaiting surgery for a fractured jaw.

Another Special also suffered a broken nose and a split lip. He has been discharged from hospital.

Reacting to the distressing incident on Twitter, Colchester’s Chief Inspector Shaun Kane said there was “no excuse” for assaulting officers.

He said: “Disgusting assault on officers serving and protecting our communities in Colchester.

“My thoughts and support are with both officers concerned.

“Cowardly attacks such as this will not be tolerated with our policing resolve unwavering.”

Sgt Martin Willsher works as part of Colchester’s Team 10, a dedicated town centre crime fighting squad.

He appealed to the public to come forward with any information or footage of the incident.

“Nobody should come to work and be subject to this level of violence especially those who volunteer their time protecting their community,” he added.

Following the fracas, two teenagers and a 20-year-old man were arrested.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “A 20-year-old man and a 17-year-old boy, both from Clacton, were arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm.

“A 17-year-old boy from Clacton was arrested on suspicion of assaulting an emergency worker.

“All three remain in custody for questioning.”

Enquiries into the circumstances surrounding the incident are ongoing.

Witnesses are asked to call Colchester CID on 101, quoting incident 129 of January 13.

Or members of the public can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.