A DRUNKEN man challenged police officers to a fight before grabbing one around the throat and trying to pull him out of his car, it is alleged.

Police are appealing for witnesses to come forward to the alleged assault in Shipston shortly before midnight on Saturday, December 14, in which the officer who was attacked was forced to use CS spray to help subdue the man, who was arrested.

Two members of the Shipston Safer Neighbourhood Team were patrolling Shipston town centre when they turned into the Telegraph Street car park to speak to a group of youths.

Before they had chance to engage the youths, a man and a woman – who both appeared to have been drinking – approached the police car and the man became abusive and challenged one of the officers to fight him.

He is then alleged to have opened the passenger door and grabbed one of the officers around the throat and tried to pull him out of the car, while the officer was still strapped in.

A 22-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of assault was released on police bail. Police are now appealing for witnesses to the incident. Anyone who saw this incident or who has any information about it is asked to contact Warwickshire police by calling the non-emergency number 101 quoting incident 003 of 15 December 2013.

Alternatively information can be passed on anonymously through the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Warwickshire Police and West Mercia Police are also encouraging people to drink sensibly over the festive period through Operation Christmas Presence, in order to keep themselves safe and prevent alcohol-related violence.