Officer loses hearing as firework thrown at him

Police said a boy who had his face covered fired rockets towards officers at Belle Vale Park

A police officer lost some of his hearing and was burnt after a boy threw a rocket firework towards him.

The young boy, who had his face covered, was part of a gang of youths who were damaging cars and letting off fireworks at Belle Vale Park in Liverpool at about 18:35 GMT on Wednesday, Merseyside Police said.

The officer suffered a loss of hearing, a laceration to his ear and burns and cuts to his head.

Det Insp Neil Dillon said it was a "disgraceful incident... which could have so easily been even worse".

Det Insp Dillon appealed for people to come forward with any information, adding: "You may have captured this group on CCTV, dashcam or other devices, and this may be vital evidence.”

Supt Dawn McNally, who is leading Merseyside Police’s operation over Bonfire Night, said such "reckless behaviour" was "completely unacceptable".

“We’re supporting the injured officer as this investigation continues," she added.