POLICE have released the images of three men they want to speak to after two officers were attacked in the street.

The pair were on their way to another call when they spotted a group of men fighting outside a pub in Long Street, Middleton.

They stopped to help but the brawlers attacked them.

A male officer was punched in the head, knocking him unconscious and female officer was also punched, dragged to the floor and then stamped on.

Both officers were taken to hospital but have since been discharged and are recovering at home while the attackers ran away.

Police believe a number of men involved in the disorder had been ejected from ‘Infinity’ nightclub on Long Street a few minutes earlier.

Detective Inspector Karl Ward said: “We have been continuing our enquiries throughout the day and we are now releasing CCTV images of three men we wish to speak to in connection with this shocking incident.

“If you think that you might recognise the men pictured in the images then I would encourage you to please contact us as a matter of urgency.

“We are also keen to speak with anyone who has any additional information that they believe can assist us with our investigation.”

Anyone with information should contact police on 0161 856 4646 quoting incident number 470 21/12/19.

Alternatively, the independent charity Crimestoppers can be called anonymously on 0800 555 111.