A POLICE officer was repeatedly punched in the face after stepping in to try and diffuse an argument.

A team were on patrol in Colchester town centre when they were made aware of a disturbance in St Botolph's Street at 3.10am on Thursday.

They discovered the row and tried to calm the situation down.

However, the officer was then punched in the face numerous times.

A 33-year-old man from Colchester was arrested.

He is still in custody for questioning.

The officer suffered injuries to his mouth and was taken to hospital for treatment.

Police are now appealing for witnesses.

Anyone with information is asked to call Colchester police station on 101 quoting crime reference 42/192046/19 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.