AN AVERAGE of three police staff are subjected to violence in Hampshire every day - new figures show.

The Hampshire Police Federation have released data showing that 1118 acts of violence were recorded against Hampshire Constabulary staff over a 12 month period between 2015 and 2016.

The figure equates to around three acts of violence towards members of Hampshire's police teams every day.

This includes both physical and verbal attacks, with almost a third resulting in injury towards officers.

The figures come following a weekend in which 10 police officers assaulted in Hampshire.

Three of those attacked required hospital treatment.

Chairman of Hampshire Police Federation, John Apter, has been leading the campaign for police staff to get better support following an assault and has also called for officers to be handed more equipment, such as tasers.

He said: "I make no apology for publishing these figures.

"It is important the public see the reality of policing and the level of violence used against our officers on a daily basis.

"The vast majority of the public would be appalled at the number of police officers who are assaulted every day across the Country.

“Police officers perform a difficult and dangerous job on behalf of the public, being assaulted is not just part of the job and must never be seen as such."

Hampshire Police Federation has been working with Hampshire Constabulary to put better support in place for officers and staff who have been assaulted on duty.

Part of this has been to get better data on the numbers of officers and staff who have been assaulted.

Mr Apter added: "I know the work we have started is making a difference.

"Officers feel better supported, equipment is being improved and the issue of assaults on officers is being discussed. Despite this more needs to be done.

"I want to see mandatory prison sentences for anybody who assaults a public official.

"There must be a consequence for those intent on assaulting police officers or any other public worker.

"They are not societies punch bags and they deserve the support of Government and the wider judicial system.”