According to police, a Toyota Soarer was pursued for a short distance along Richardson Road at Campvale about 5pm yesterday (Wednesday, April 24), before police terminated it due to safety concerns.

The same vehicle was seen about half an hour later at nearby Finnan Park, Raymond Terrace; however, during the driver's arrest a struggle ensued and an officer was allegedly struck in the head by a metal torch, knocking him unconscious.

OC (capsicum) spray was used and the 24-year-old man was taken into custody by other officers.

He was taken to Raymond Terrace Police Station where he was charged with police pursuit - not stop - drive recklessly, drive while licence cancelled, wound police officer executing duty reckless as to actual bodily harm, resist or hinder police officer in the execution of duty, possess prohibited drug (four counts), and goods in personal custody suspected being stolen.

The man, from Waratah, was refused bail to appear in Newcastle Local Court today (Thursday, April 25).

The injured officer - a Senior Constable who is attached to Port Stephens-Hunter Police District - was taken to hospital where he's had a head wound stitched.

He was kept under observation until shortly after 11pm when he was allowed to leave.