A policeman was punched unconscious and a woman officer stamped on in a 'disgusting' attack in Middleton.
The pair were on their way to deal with another incident early today when they spotted a large group of men fighting near a pub in Long Street.
They stopped to break up the ruckus and were assaulted.
The male officer was punched in the head, knocking him unconscious. The female officer was also punched, dragged to the floor and then stamped on. Both officers were taken to hospital but have since been discharged.
The offenders fled the scene after the assault. The incident happened at 2.35am.
No arrests have been made.
Detective Sergeant Tim O’Callaghan, of GMP’s Rochdale division, said: “This is a disgusting way to treat police officers, who spend their days and nights trying to keep the people of Greater Manchester safe.
“We are providing welfare support to the two officers who were attacked after bravely trying to intervene in a large fight and keep the peace.
“We will not tolerate this kind of behaviour and are 100 per cent committed to bringing those responsible to justice.
“Although this happened in the early hours, it was outside a pub at what can be a busy junction so we’re appealing for anyone with information which will assist us with our investigation to contact us immediately”.
One of the offenders is described as being white, of medium build with short brown hair and a beard. He was wearing a dark coloured T shirt, trousers and trainers at the time.
Another is described as being white, of medium build, around 6ft tall and in his early 30s. He had short dark hair and stubble. He was wearing a black belted coat, blue or grey jeans with ripped knees and dark coloured shoes at the time.
Anyone with information should contact police on 0161 856 4646 quoting number 470 of 21/12/19.
Alternatively, the independent charity – Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
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