THE MP for North West Hampshire has blasted thugs on social media who beat up police officers in Hackney.

Kit Malthouse branded the attackers as "monstrous" and "shameful" after they stopped and assaulted two police officers.

The MP wrote on Twitter: "Monstrous and shameful. I hope the officers are OK and every single one of those cowards is charged."

Andover Advertiser: Two police officers suffered from minor injuries in the attackTwo police officers suffered from minor injuries in the attack

The officers stopped to help an apparent assault victim when they were set upon by a group of bystanders.

A video posted on social media shows an officer pinned down on the ground and being kicked, while his female colleague is pushed when she tries to intervene.

Several men are seen surrounding the Scotland Yard officers swearing, shouting and filming on their phones, with one even dancing and takie a selfie during the assault.

Police officers who stopped to help an apparent assault victim were set upon in a 'sickening attack' in Hackney, London.

The officers suffered from minor injuries in the attack, in Frampton Park, Hackney, east London, at around 3.30pm on Wednesday, Scotland Yard said.

They had been flagged down by a member of the public who said they had been attacked and pointed them towards the suspects, a spokeswoman added.

The Metropolitan Police Federation, which represents rank-and-file officers, said attacks on officers seem to be increasing, adding: "Yet again this starkly shows the dangers @metpoliceuk face and the bravery they show each and every day keeping Londoners safe."