A hunt is still on to find suspects after a police officer was attacked and injured in a graveyard and police say one of them may have been carrying a firearm.

Kent Police said it was conducting ongoing enquiries after the male officer sustained a head injury in St Lawrence church graveyard in Ramsgate and has now revealed armed officers were scrambled as part of a search last night.

The man was reported to have been knocked unconscious after being assaulted by a group of people in St Lawrence Chase, just before 10pm on Friday.

The incident sparked a huge manhunt and the force has now revealed armed units attended as a precaution.

A spokesman added: "It was reported one of the people who assaulted the officer may have been in possession of a firearm and armed officers attended the scene as a precaution. No firearm was discharged against the officer."

The worker was treated at the scene for a head injury and taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. He since been discharged.

Currently no arrests have been made.

Meanwhile support has been shown by the police in wishing their injured colleague a speedy recovery.

People nearby reported hearing the helicopter hovering for around an hour. The search began around Manston Road, which many people suggested was 'in lockdown' and broadened out to Newington and Dumpton.

Several police units were also based in King Street. These had left just after midnight

Anyone with information is asked to call Kent Police on 01843 222289 quoting 02-1242.Alternatively contact Kent Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.