Liverpool police officer hit by van in Norris Green Published duration 26 November 2017

image caption Officers tried to stop a white van on Hasfield Road in Norris Green

A police officer was seriously injured when he was hit by a van driven at him in Liverpool.

Police were trying to stop a white Transit van in Norris Green when it was driven onto the pavement and then at the officer at 19:25 GMT on Saturday.

The officer was taken to hospital following the "despicable attack" where he is being treated for injuries to his ribs and leg, Merseyside Police said.

A man, from Everton, has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.

The 34-year-old, who is also being held on possession of cannabis and driving while under the influence of drink or drugs, remains in custody.

The van hit a police car and other parked vehicles on Hasfield Road before it was driven at the officer, detectives said.

image caption The policeman's injuries are not thought to be life-threatening

Det Ch Insp Martin Earl said: "This was a despicable attack on a police officer who was simply doing his job, trying to protect the communities of Merseyside.

"The officer has sustained serious injuries for which he is receiving treatment. He has also been left extremely shaken by his ordeal."

'Dangers of policing'

He added that colleagues have been left "shocked" by the incident and are being provided with support.

Peter Singleton, chair of the Merseyside branch of the Police Federation - which represents 120,000 officers across the UK - said it was "another sobering reminder of how dangerous policing can be".

"It's an incident that shows there are individuals out there who really just do not care, have no thoughts for other people - for the public or police officers - and their safety," he said.