Man arrested after police officer knocked off bike in east Belfast

A man in his 50s has been arrested after a police officer was knocked off a bicycle while on duty in east Belfast.

The officer was treated in hospital for an injury which has been described as “non life-threatening” following the collision in the Belmont Road area on Sunday afternoon.

Police said that around 3pm the driver of a Renault Clio collided with one of the bicycle-mounted officers patrolling the Belmont Road area in the cycle lane.

They said the driver failed a scene breath test and fitness test, and that during arrest, he struck out at another officer.

They said he was arrested on suspicion of driving while unfit through drink/drugs, careless driving causing grievous bodily injury, assault on police and resisting police.

Following questioning, he was released on police bail to allow for key inquiries to be completed.

Sergeant Gary Jackson said: “My thoughts are with our colleague who has our full support as he recovers from this injury.

“As part of our inquiries, we are appealing for information and would appreciate anyone who was in the Belmont Road and Belmont Avenue areas at this time and witnessed this collision, or who would have dashcam or doorbell footage, to call us on 101.”