A criminal who left two police officers in hospital after they tried to arrest him has been jailed for nearly a year.

John Leigh, 29, of Salomons Road, Tunbridge Wells admitted causing actual bodily harm to both officers as he tried to evade arrest on October 12.

Police had been called to Monson Road at just before 1pm to a report of an assault. But when they tried to arrest Leigh, he lashed out.

The two officers suffered serious injuries and were taken to hospital. One month on, one remains off work while he undergoes treatment.

At Sevenoaks Magistrates' Court yesterday, Leigh was given two sentences of 180 days each for causing actual bodily harm.

He was handed a further 60-day term for assaulting another man, which will run concurrently with the other sentences.

He admitted all three counts.

Speaking after the sentencing, Tunbridge Wells district commander Ch Insp Dave Pate said: "We will not tolerate violence on the streets of Tunbridge Wells towards anyone, including police officers going about their duties to protect the public.

"In this case, and in spite of his violent behaviour towards police, Leigh was swiftly arrested at the scene and I'm glad to see he has now been sent to prison.

"Coincidentally, on the same morning as this sentence was passed, another of my officers received a minor injury while on duty in Tunbridge Wells. It is unacceptable that this should happen.

"A 34-year-old man has been charged in relation to that second incident and we await the outcome of him being dealt with by the legal system."

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