A WIRRAL teenager has been arrested after a police community support officer (PCSO) was punched in the back of the head in Liverpool city centre.

On Wednesday, April 17 just before 6.30pm a teenager, who was with a group of youths, came up behind the officer and struck him to the back of the head causing soreness and dizziness.

The officer’s colleague chased and detained the teenager in Chavasse Park in Liverpool One.

The injured officer, who attended hospital for assessment and had sustained concussion, is recuperating at home.

A 17-year-old boy from New Ferry has been arrested on suspicion of assaulting an emergency worker and taken into custody to be questioned.

Chief Constable Serena Kennedy said: “Every single day, our Police Community Support Officers provide a vital link between local communities and regular police officers. They are a visible presence in our neighbourhoods ensuring that there is a constant offer of support and reassurance for those in need, and perform a whole host of roles all dedicated to keeping the public safe.

“For one to be assaulted during the course of those duties is completely abhorrent and totally unacceptable. 

“Thankfully, the PCSO is now recovering at home. We hope to see him back as soon as he is able, and everyone at Merseyside Police wishes him well.

“I want to take this opportunity to thank the officer who pursued the suspect across Liverpool One to Chavasse Park. In doing so he has undoubtedly helped to progress this investigation as we seek to bring justice for his colleague.”

Anyone with information about the incident can DM @MerPolCC, ‘Merseyside Police Contact Centre’ on Facebook quoting with reference 820 of 17 April. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.