Police are investigating after an officer was ‘left bloodied’ when a bottle was thrown at him outside a bar.

Officers were called to the scene in Clapham Road shortly before 12.50am on January 7 to reports of an altercation between security door staff and a group of young men.

When the male officer, in his 30s, intervened and attempted to detain one of them, a bottle was thrown at his head.

DC Rich Mosford, of Lambeth CID, said: “This was a serious assault on a police officer who suffered a head injury and was left bloodied by a glass bottle deliberately thrown at him as he tried to bring some order to the situation.

"The consequences could have been far worse.

“Attacks on officers of this nature and severity are thankfully rare and they will not be tolerated.”

The officer was later taken to a south London hospital for treatment of a head injury and has since been discharged.

An 18-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of violent disorder.

Four other males – two aged 18 and two 17 – were also arrested on suspicion of public order offences.

While one of the 17-year-olds was referred to their local youth offending team, the other three were released with no further action being taken.

Now the Met has released an image of a man they wish to speak with in connection with the assault on the officer.

DC Mosford added: “As part of our ongoing investigation, we would like to speak to the man in the picture.

“Do you recognise him? If so, get in touch right away.

"I would like to praise the officer involved who, after sustaining his injury, still managed to keep hold of and detain a potential suspect amidst the disorder."

Anyone who witnessed the incident or has information about the attack should call 0208 649 2134.

You can also call 101 and quote CAD 291/7Jan, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.