PCSO 'feared for his life' after being mowed down by biker in an attack involving 20 thugs

Police Community Support Officers Dylan Middlemiss and Connor Smith received gashes to the leg, bruising and swelling when they were punched, kicked and surrounded by around 20 youths when attending a large bonfire in Haswell at around 7.30pm on Thursday, June 18.

The incident took place in a field near Salters Lane. The officers were also faced with four off-road bikes and two cars.

One of the bikes was ridden straight towards the officer, who was knocked to the ground receiving two deep tears to his leg.

The officers were again attacked when the man urged the others: “Hit them! There are loads of us.”

PCSO Smith received a blow to the head from another man, releasing the rider to defend himself as others joined in. The two took more blows to the face and body.

Two more officers arrived and a man was arrested. He remains in custody, but police are appealing for information on the gang.

PCSO Middlemiss said: “We were advised by firefighters on scene that the group had already behaved aggressively towards them, and had even let off fireworks in their direction while they attempted to deal with the fire.

“When we approached, the group initially dispersed in multiple directions, but a short time later we could hear the bikes getting closer again.

“This was the first time I’ve had a real fear for my life and my colleague’s life.”

Chief Inspector David Coxon, of Durham Police, said: “This attack can only be described as vicious and cowardly, carried out by a large group of youths against two lone officers.

“PCSOs are unarmed officers, whose primary role is to engage with the public and tackle concerns within their community. They do not come to work to be beaten and injured.

“We have reason to believe that the incident was captured on video by members of the group, so I have no doubt that somebody out there will have information that can help us identify those responsible.”

Anyone with any information should contact Durham Police on 101, quoting incident number 395.

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