A RUNCORN MP today called for greater protection for the emergency services after a PCSO was viciously attacked by a knifeman whilst on patrol.

The officer was approached by a man who told him about an incident in the woods in Palacefields.

As he approached three men who appeared to be fighting he was attacked from behind by a man who tried to stab him in the face.

The PCSO was treated in hospital for slash wounds to his hands and face following the incident on November 23.

Weaver Vale MP Mike Amesbury raised the issue during Parliamentary questions to the Secretary of State for Justice, David Lidington.

He said: “I’m sure the Secretary of State will join me in condemning the shocking and senseless attack on a PCSO in my constituency who was reportedly lured into some woods before being attacked with a knife.

“Will the Secretary of State agree to meet with me and other relevant partners to discuss what more the government can do to ensure that the justice system properly reflects the gravity of such serious crimes?”

The minister announced that the government would be backing a motion by Labour’s Chris Bryant.

It is expected that the new Assaults on Emergency Workers (Offences) Bill will double the maximum sentence for common assault from six months to a year if committed against an emergency worker while they are on duty.