Author James Runcie – who created the Grantchester novels- has been attacked in Ely.

He was attacked outside of Ely Cathedral last Saturday, police have revealed.

Mr Runcie receive eye and head injuries – a man has subsequently been arrested.

The author, whose books have been turned into a popular TV series, is recovering. His agent said Mr Runcie “wants to particularly thank the people who came to his aid: the man who helped apprehend his attacker, the Ely ambulance service and the police.

“He will be forever grateful to them for their demonstration of decency and compassion. Everyone is wishing him a speedy recovery.”

In an ITV Anglia interview he once spoke of how he could still wander around Cambridge without being recognised.