Officer injured as 4x4 driver speeds off

The police constable was patrolling Barkerend Road with a police community support officer, helping people in the bad weather, when he was struck by a green 4x4 type vehicle at about 2.55pm on Wednesday.

The two officers from the Barkerend and Bradford Moor neighbourhood policing team had spotted the vehicle in a pedestrian area near Binnie Street.

As they approached to speak to the driver, the vehicle drove off – knocking the police constable to the ground.

The officer, who was left with injuries to the lower part of his body, was taken to Bradford Royal Infirmary where he remained overnight.

Detective Inspector Mark Long said: "This officer was doing his job and helping members of the public with the adverse weather conditions when he was knocked to the ground by the driver of this vehicle which then left the scene.

"It is only by sheer good fortune this officer was not more seriously injured and the driver clearly had no idea about the condition of the officer when he drove off."

West Yorkshire Police are now appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident to contact them.

DI Long said: "Due to the traffic congestion, there were a large number of people in the area at the time and I am particularly keen to hear from anyone who saw the vehicle's details such as its registration.

"This is a serious incident involving an officer who was simply doing his best in difficult conditions to ensure the safety of other drivers."

He asked anyone with information about the incident to contact Bradford South CID on 0845 6060606.