Arrest after traffic warden attacked on city road

A 70-year-old man has been arrested after a traffic warden was attacked in Hereford city centre - with the victim going to hospital with severe bruising.

The enforcement officer was knocked over and "kicked multiple times while on the ground", before a member of the public intervened, Herefordshire Council said.

Councillor Barry Durkin, cabinet member for roads, said: "There can be no excuse for attacking someone who is simply doing their job."

The pensioner who had been arrested had been released on bail in connection with the incident while enquiries continued, West Mercia Police said.

The attack took place on Union Street on Monday and the council said support was being given to the warden.

The authority said any body-cam evidence would be passed to police.

"We're deeply concerned by what has happened and our immediate priority is supporting the officer involved as well as his colleagues," Durkin added.

Council leader Jonathan Lester said he was "grateful for the support shown" by the member of the public who intervened.

"This incident is concerning and highlights the risks that many front-line workers face as they go about their duties on behalf of the community," he added.

"We must be clear that violence towards public servants is completely unacceptable."

The authority said it was carrying out a risk assessment of the location and that other enforcement officers were advised to be "particularly vigilant".

West Mercia Police Sgt Duncan Reynolds said: "No-one should expect to be assaulted while simply carrying out their job - everyone should expect to go to work without fear of harassment, threat or abuse.

"We will continue to work with Herefordshire Council to support them as they review measures to protect their enforcement officers."

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