A MAN has been charged after a paramedic was violently beaten in broad daylight in central Weston last week.

Police were called to Alexandra Parade at around 7pm on March 30, after receiving reports that a paramedic was being assaulted.

A witness, who did not want to be named, said: “I was coming out of Tesco and heard lots of shouting from the grassy area opposite the Odeon cinema. There were a lot of people around.

“I don’t know exactly what happened before, but suddenly a member of the public started shouting ‘get back’ to onlookers.

“I then saw a paramedic on the floor and he looked as if he’d had his face smashed in. After that, lots of police turned up.”

A spokesman from Avon and Somerset Constabulary confirmed officers arrested a suspect at the scene.

The spokesman said: “We arrested and charged a 51-year-old man from Bedminster with three offences, after we were called to Alexandra Parade at about 7pm to a report of a paramedic being assaulted.

“The man in question has been bailed to appear before North Somerset Magistrates on April 14 charged with assault by beating, criminal damage and using threatening or abusive words or behaviour with intent to cause fear of unlawful violence.”

South Western Ambulance Service told the Mercury: “South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust takes a zero tolerance approach to any form of abuse on its staff. All reports of violence and aggression towards crews are taken seriously.

“Every member of Trust staff plays a vital role in serving the community by helping to deliver the right care in the right place, at the right time, and staff should be able to fulfil their life-saving role without fear of abuse or assault.”