Four men were arrested after two police officers were injured dealing with an incident of disorder in Stroud.

Gloucestershire police said officers responded to a report of violence involving a group of men shortly before 4am on George Street and a man was arrested on Sunday (11 February).

While he resisted arrest, the offender is alleged to have attempted to bite and punch an officer on the head, face and legs as others in the group became confrontational and aggressive toward police. A Taser stun gun was also used on the offender due to the level of violence.

The officer suffered a fracture in his hand in the process and a second officer suffered bruising and swelling.

A number of officers assisted their colleagues and diffused the situation as two other men and a youth were also arrested.

Chief Inspector Richard Pegler said: "To assault a police officer is wholly unacceptable, to try and bite someone is particularly disgusting. No officer should be subject to any level of violence in the execution of their duty and this won't be tolerated.

"I'd like to thank our officers who bravely faced and handled the hostile situation. The officers involved showed great courage and resilience and will be supported by the Constabulary.

"Sadly assaults on emergency service staff are increasing and is a national issue being tackled by the Police Federation with the Protect The Protectors campaign."

*A 23-year-old man has been charged with two counts of assault, possession of Cannabis and a public order offence. An 18-year-old man and a 20-year-old man were both charged with a public order offence in connection with the incident and all three have been bailed to return to court next month.

A 17-year-old, who was also arrested on suspicion of a public order offence, has been released under investigation.