A 13-year-old boy has been arrested after a police officer was hit in the face with a hammer while attending a suspected burglary.

The officer was struck three times with the weapon in Canal Street, Clayton-le-Moors, today, breaking his nose.

The police constable, from Colne, who has worked as a geographic response officer in Accrington for two-and-half years, was taken to Royal Blackburn Hospital.

He is said to be recovering from his injuries, which also included cuts to his head.

Inspector David Mangan said: “This was a serious attack on the officer and demonstrates dangers police officers face on a daily basis.”

Police had been called to a empty house at 10.20am after a man reported seeing four youths acting suspiciously.

When officers arrived, two youths aged 16 and 19, were arrested on suspicion of burglary.

Police said officers chased after two other teenagers they suspected had been involved.

A force spokesman said the officer, who has not been named, was struck while trying to arrest the suspects.

The officer was hit in the face three times with the hammer, but managed to seize the weapon.

After an extensive search operation involving the police helicopter, neighbourhood policing teams, dog patrols and response officers two boys, aged 13 and 14, were arrested.

All four boys are being questioned on suspicion of burglary. The 13-year-old boy is also being held on suspicion of wounding.