Bicester's police officers are the first in the county to be issued with stab and bullet proof jackets.

This week, 60 officers took delivery of the protective jackets.

Eventually all Thames Valley Police officers will wear the armoured vests.

Previously, officers only wore this type of jacket when there was potential trouble, but in a move to improve officers' safety the jackets have now become part of the uniform.

The number of attacks on officers in northern Oxfordshire has risen.

From April to September this year there were 59 assaults on officers, compared with 39 in the same period last year.

Inspector Ian Edwards, of Bicester Police, said: "In the past body armour has been available whenever there was the potential for trouble.

"But sometimes these confrontations come out of the blue, so it is best that officers are permanently equipped to deal with them."

Regular officers and special constables have been issued with the jackets -- called Dual Purpose Body Armour Vests -- which fit over police shirts or sweaters.

Police are appealing for witnesses after an off-duty constable was attacked in Carterton at about 2am on October 19.

Two off-duty officers were on the lower deck of a bus which left Market Square, in Witney.

A group of men on the bus recognised them and made abusive comments.

When the officers got off in Carterton, they were pursued and one officer was kicked and punched.

Three men aged between 22 and 25 have been arrested on suspicion of violent disorder. Anyone with information should call 01993 893833.