A teenager has been charged with grievous bodily harm on a police officer who allegedly sustained a broken nose and fractured cheekbone when hit in the face by a bottle.

Ben McPherson, of Warren Avenue, Saxmundham, is accused of striking Pc Jeffrey Burt with a bottle of Jack Daniels whiskey after the officer responded to a call on Friday night.

McPherson is charged with wounding with intent. The 18-year-old is also accused harassment by breaching a restraining order.

The allegations arise out of an incident which is said to have begun at Russell Close in Peasenhall on 9.10pm.

McPherson is alleged to have breached a restraining order which was imposed on October 29, 2014 by going to a property.

Pc Burt was taken to hospital after the alleged assault.

McPherson made his first appearance on the charges before South East Suffolk Magistrates’ Court in Ipswich yesterday via a video link from Martlesham Police Investigation Centre.

The grievous bodily harm charge is so serious it can only be dealt with at crown court.

McPherson’s case was sent to Ipswich Crown Court where his next hearing is scheduled for April 18.

McPherson is currently remanded in custody.