A MAN has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after a police officer was stabbed.

Police and paramedics were called to Terminus Road in the early hours of this morning in Eastbourne.

It was reported that an officer was attacked, sustaining a serious stab injury to his leg, and had to be rushed to the Royal Sussex County Hospital.

Chief Constable Jo Shiner said the incident is a “stark” reminder of the dangers faced by frontline officers.

She said it was thanks to the officer's training that the incident did not become more serious.

The injured police officer was able get clear of the incident and treat their own injuries while two junior colleagues arrested a suspect.

Now police have released CCTV footage from the street, and want to track down anyone who may have witnessed what happened.

Images show people moving through the streets while the police were called to attend.

A 42-year-old man from Eastbourne was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder, wounding with intent, and assault by beating of an emergency worker and remains in custody.

The Chief Constable said: “The events overnight starkly demonstrate the risk that all police officers and frontline staff face every day whilst performing their duties to protect the public.

“It is thanks to comprehensive training and the fast-thinking of those at the scene that I am not reporting something far more serious today.

“The injured officer was able to move away and self-administer medical intervention whilst his two junior colleagues – both just 15 months into their policing careers – apprehended the suspect.

“The actions of all three officers, as well as colleagues who swiftly came to their aid, are to be commended.”

Detectives are keen to speak to a number of people seen on CCTV in Terminus Road shortly before the assault took place, some of whom may have talked to the suspect.

Anyone who witnessed the incident is asked to report it to Sussex Police online or call 101 quoting Operation Broadbury.