erupted among an estimated 400 people.

The officers were attacked as they battled to break up a Court Street fight.

One suffered multiple injuries after being set upon by up to 15 thugs.

Det. Con. John Fryer was knocked to the ground and repeatedly kicked.

The 36-year-old's injuries included a broken nose, and cuts about his body.

Yesterday he was recovering at home after treatment at King Edward VII Memorial Hospital.

Police believe his injuries could have been worse if members of the public had not come to his help.

And they praised those willing to help break up the disturbance.

The incident occurred at about 2.40 a.m. on Sunday outside the Spinning Wheel night spot.

Police rushed to scene following a complaint about a disturbance.

Det. Fryer, who has been on the force 15 years, arrived with five colleagues.

He was immediately subjected to a hail of bottles and stones from members of the 400-strong crowd.

Another officer, aged 20, suffered minor cuts to his hand.

A Police car was also badly damaged.

One eye witness, who wished to remain anonymous, told how the crowd turned on the Police.

"A couple of guys were fighting and someone called the Police to come and stop the fight.

"Some of the guys started throwing bottles. Police tried to grab a few of them and then the crowd turned on the Police.'' Police spokesman Sgt. Roseanda Jones said the officers came under fire as they tried to "quieten the situation''.

She said the Police investigation was being headed by Det. Insp. Jonathan Smith.

Yesterday Det. Insp. Smith appealed for witnesses, who can ring him on 295-0011.

Those wishing to remain anonymous should call 295-1140.

Police yesterday thanked those who had helped them.

Said Sgt. Jones: "We would like to thank those members of the public who assisted the officers in what can only be described as a very bad situation.

"Without their help the situation may have been worse.''