A female police officer was left needing surgery after a struggle with a man she stopped in the street.

The 39-year-old constable was assaulted by a suspect on the corner of Romford Road and Westbury Road in Forest Gate.

Her fingers were bent back, causing them to shatter in six places.

She was taken to hospital for treatment following the incident, which took place at around 3.45pm on March 9, but has since been discharged.

The suspect is described as Asian, in his early 20s and of slim build. He is around 5ft 8ins tall and has straight black hair. He is believed to have fled the scene on foot up Westbury Road.

Anyone with information should call the Newham Violent Crime Unit on 020 7275 5889 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.