A female police officer was left with a bloodied nose after being punched three times in the face by a man, a court was told.

Jamie Watts, 52, of Walpole St Peter, Wisbech, admitted to assaulting a police officer and racially aggravated behaviour at King's Lynn Magistrates Court.

Sally Rose, prosecuting, said the police officer heard a disturbance outside Bar Red on Norfolk Street in King's Lynn in the early hours of February 25.

She said the police officer saw Watts causing problems and shouting aggressively words of a racist nature while pointing across the road to Bar Red.

She held onto one of his arms while another officer held onto his other arm but he pulled away.

Mrs Rose said Watts stepped forward aggressively and she pushed him back, then he used his fist to punch her twice in the nose and once on her right ear.

The court heard the police officer sought medical advice straight away after being left with a bloody nose and pain to her eye and ear.

Mrs Rose said the police officer was left feeling shocked and surprised after the unprovoked attack. Her children were concerned with her taking this role and she was concerned about going out and being seen with her injuries while out with her partner.

Andrew Cogan, defending, said Watts was in Bar Red listening to a tribute ska band in what was described as a 'perfectly pleasant evening'.

After Watts left the bar, he saw his wife 'engulfed' by a large group of people and thought he saw her getting assaulted, the court heard.

Mr Cogan said it was at this point Watts used 'unfortunate words' and the police investigated.

Mr Cogan added: 'Mr Watts is absolutely beside himself with what has happened. It was out of character and he is truly sorry.'

District judge Nicholas Watson handed Watts eight weeks imprisonment, suspended for 18 months, and ordered him to do 150 hours of unpaid work.

Watts was ordered to pay £600 compensation to the police officer, £115 victim surcharge and £85 court costs.

Addressing Watts, Mr Watson said: 'This is an appalling act on an officer; you've heard the effects on her and her family.

'You hit her on three occasions. It is fortunate you didn't do her more harm.'