DETECTIVES are trying to trace a man who spoke to a PCSO minutes before he was viciously attacked by a knifeman in Runcorn.

The PCSO was treated in Halton Hospital for slash wounds to his hands and face after being called to a fight in woodlands in Palacefields.

The terrifying assault happened shortly after 5pm on Thursday as he was on routine patrol.

Detective Inspector Claire Coleman said: “Enquiries in relation to this incident are ongoing and as part of our investigation I would like to appeal directly to the man who spoke to the PCSO shortly before he was attacked.

“Whilst I understand that he may be anxious or concerned about coming forward, I would like to reassure him that we are not looking at him as a suspect but a potential witness who may hold vital information in relation to this callous attack."

The incident occurred at around 4.50pm on Thursday, November 23 when a PCSO was approached by a man who alerted him to an incident in a wooded area between Sparrowhawk Close and Cunliffe Close in Palacefields.

The officer went into the wood and became aware of a group of three men who appeared to be fighting.

As the officer walked towards the group he was suddenly attacked from behind by an unknown man who attempted to stab him in the face with a knife.

Two of the men are described as white, between 5ft 8ins and 5ft 10 ins tall of a stocky build. The third man is around 5ft 9ins tall, of skinny build and had a strong Liverpool accent.

Thankfully the officer was able to fight off his attacker and all of the men then fled the scene in the direction of Sparrowhawk Close.

The officer was taken to Halton District General Hospital where he received treatment for injuries consisting of slash wounds to his hands and face.

Chief Inspector Sarah Heath, who is in charge of policing in Runcorn, said: “On this occasion our officer was able to fight off his attackers and did not sustain any serious injuries.

“I’m also pleased to say that he has now returned to work.

“However, the outcome could have been far worse and it’s essential that we trace the people responsible for this despicable attack and ensure that nobody else has to suffer the stress and trauma that our officer has endured.

“Information from the public is vital and I urge anyone with any information, no matter how small, to contact Cheshire Police on 101 quoting incident number 668 of 23 November.

“If you do not want to speak to the police directly then information can be left anonymously, via Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.”