A victim of a vicious New Year's attack last night said the off-duty police officer who suffered critical injuries after coming to his rescue deserved an award for his bravery.

A victim of a vicious New Year's attack last night said the off-duty police officer who suffered critical injuries after coming to his rescue deserved an award for his bravery.

PC Liam Reddy, 31, who works in the Norwich area, suffered life threatening head injuries after trying to break up a fight outside the Rivergarden Pub in Yarmouth Road, Norwich, on New Year's Eve.

A young man was punched in the head several times before his attackers were removed from the pub by door staff. When the victim and his girlfriend left the pub he was attacked again.

It is believed Mr Reddy went outside to check on the victim. Just before midnight he was found unconscious in the car park and had been badly beaten around the head. He was in critical care at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital for several days but on Monday was discharged and is now recovering at home.

Yesterday the attack victim, who asked not to be named for fear of reprisals, told the EDP of his gratitude. The Norwich man, who suffered cuts and bruises following the incident, said: “He tried to break-up the fight and stand up for me - he was off-duty didn't have to do it. I just want to thank him for what he did and wish him all the best in his recovery.

“I can't help thinking that if he hadn't intervened it could have been me lying in that hospital bed. It's good to hear that he is making progress and I just hope that continues.

“What he did was definitely courageous and if there is an award for that kind of think I would certainly think he deserved it.”

Four men have been arrested in connection with the incident and police are continuing to appeal for witnesses to come forward. Det Sgt Gary Bloomfield said: “I am conscious that a number of people were at the scene and passing by who may have important eye witness information and we need to trace these individuals.

”If you saw what happened please come forward and if you know who was responsible for this hand them in now.”

Contact Det Sgt Bloomfield or Det Con Alice Watts at Norwich CID on 0845 4564567 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.