AN officer was kicked in the head in an early-hours attack on police.

Cops were called to Whitbourne Avenue after midnight following reports of a disorder.

A man in his 20s was arrested at the scene on suspicion of common assault but soon became violent towards the two officers.

One of the officers was kicked in the back of the head, needed a hospital check-up and had to go off duty.

A 17-year-old boy tried to stop the arrest. He was arrested on suspicion of obstructing a police officer in the execution of duty.

Both are in custody at Gablecross police station for further questioning.

Inspector Steve Love said: “This kind of behaviour towards officers is completely unacceptable and the actions of this individual led to one officer having to go home to recover.

“Officers should not be subjected to this kind of abuse as they go about their duties to keep the public safe.”