London news: Police launch manhunt after two officers hospitalised in 'disgraceful' attack
The two officers were attacked while responding to a 999 call in Hackney, London
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Police are hunting an attacker after two police officers were assaulted and taken to hospital.
Officers were called to a property in the De Beauvoir Estate in Hackney around 2 o'clock this morning.
The incident followed reports by residents that a man was attempting to force entry to a property.
One caller reported that the suspect may have been suffering a mental health crisis.
When officers arrived on scene, they were confronted by the man, who attacked them.
A Scotland Yard spokesperson said one of the officers suffered serious injuries. Both required hospital treatment.
Police said a knife was recovered at the scene. The suspect ran off and a manhunt is underway to locate him.
London news: The attack happened at the De Beauvoir Estate in Hackney
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Detective Chief Superintendent James Conway said "This incident is once again and example of the very real dangers our officers can be confronted with at any time as they ultimately work to protect and serve our communities.
"It is entirely unacceptable that officers who are doing their job and conducting reasonable and legitimate enquiries should be assaulted in this disgraceful way.
"We will ensure that both officers involved in this incident, who showed great bravery and professionalism, will receive the continuing support they need and deserve.
"Meanwhile, our detectives are leading the investigation to find the person responsible."
The De Beauvoir Estate was built in the late 1960s and is one of the biggest housing estates in east London. As well as its iconic five huge tower blocks, there are a number of low-rise buildings.
It is close to fashionable Shoreditch and Islington, within walking distance of the City of London, and surrounded by the sought-after Victorian streets of De Beauvoir Town.