An Avon and Somerset Police officer that suffered severe facial injuries whilst on duty has undergone surgery.

The officer sustained the injuries while trying to detain a suspect in Staple Hill on Tuesday night.

The 25-year-old has been with the Force for three-and-a-half years and is currently in hospital in a stable condition.

Supt Pete Warren said: “He’s in good spirits despite the injuries he suffered in the line of duty and underwent an operation last night which lasted several hours. Thankfully the operation went well. He remains in hospital but we’re hopeful he’ll be discharged later today to continue his recovery at home.

“We’d like to wholeheartedly thank the public for all their support and kind words. It means a lot to the officer, his family and everyone here at Avon and Somerset Police.”

An investigation into the incident in which the officer was injured is ongoing.

A 20-year-old man arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply a class A drug has been released on bail.

A 37-year-old man arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of controlled drugs has been released under investigation.

A third man, aged 33, was also arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving and being concerned in the supply of a class A drug. He’s also been released on bail.