THE community rallied around a Romsey police officer who was "given abuse" from a group of youths.

Test Valley Police is thanking members of the public for supporting a policeman who was challenged by seven to eight youths in Abbotswood after they were caught trying to shoplift.

The Romsey Neighbourhood Police Team officer detained a youth for failing to provide his details following a group of youths attempting to steal from the Co-op in Abbotswood Common Road on Tuesday, August 1.

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Test Valley Cops posted on Facebook: “We would just like to say thank you to the community for looking out for your local neighbourhood officers.

“An officer from Romsey NPT was single crewed and was faced with seven to eight youths giving him abuse and generally trying to make his job more challenging than it needed to be.

“Members of the community kept an eye out on our officer to make sure he was ok and from feedback from them, they all said the same thing, that they were prepared to get involved if it went wrong (thankfully it didn't).

“Once back-up arrived, the young man was searched and then later released. The support from our community is always greatly received and we really do appreciate it, so thank you again.”

A spokesperson for Hampshire Police said: "No further action has been taken but the officers involved will be speaking to their parents."