Senior police figures in Dorset have condemned a surge of assaults on officers over the festive period.

In the past two weeks 11 police officers were attacked by members of the public. These incidents included the victims being punched, kicked and spat at.

Officers sustained injuries of varying severity, with one suffering a dislocated knee.

Ahead of a busy night for the force with New Year’s celebrations across the county, a warning has been issued about the spate of assaults.

Anna Harvey, chairman of the Dorset Police Federation, said officers should not have to accept this treatment.

“The officers are out there trying to keep the public safe but at the same time they put themselves in harm’s way,” she said.

“It is now almost viewed as an acceptable way for people to behave, but this just should not be part of an officer’s job.

“These incidents have a real lasting impact not only on the individual but their family. They go home with a black eye, how do you explain that to your children? It is quite heartbreaking.

“One officer who was assaulted in the past quit the force because of what happened. Others never fully recover from the injuries.”

A conviction for assaulting a member of the emergency services is now punishable with a 12-month custodial sentence.

Dorset Police Chief Constable James Vaughan said: “We understand people will be out enjoying themselves at this time of year but we want them do so in a way that is safe and does not have an adverse impact on others.

“Many of our officers and staff work throughout the Christmas and New Year period and continue to show their usual high levels of commitment, courage and dedication.

“They have signed up to help and protect the public but that should not involve coming into work each day with the risk of being assaulted.”

In October, Dorset Police joined emergency services from across the south west to launch a new campaign, #Unacceptable, to highlight the trend in assaults on staff while they are on duty. It is estimated more than 200 Dorset Police officers have been assaulted while doing their jobs this year.

Chief Constable Vaughan added: “Assaults like this are completely unacceptable and the Government has recognised this by introducing the new law, which doubles the maximum sentence from six months to 12 months for assaulting an emergency service worker.

“We will not tolerate assaults on our emergency services and we will always seek to bring criminal proceedings against offenders.”