A WOMAN was repeatedly punched in the head and a police officer was assaulted in a seafront attack.

The 41-year-old woman had been with a group on West Wittering beach when she was struck at about 5pm on Friday. A police constable who attended the scene was also assaulted.

A 40-year-old man from West London was arrested on suspicion of causing actual bodily harm and assaulting an emergency worker. After being interviewed he was released on police bail until July 25.

The attack took place near the surfing school between 5pm and 5.30pm. Sussex Police are appealing for witnesses.

PC Shaun Moreland said: “If you were on the beach at around that time and saw anything of what happened, and especially if you have any video of the incident, please contact us either online or by calling 101, quoting serial 1304 of 26/06.”