An example to all

His actions contrast with those recent occasions when uniformed

officers have been criticised, and justifiably so, for putting the "health and safety" rule book before practical common sense and the public interest.

Though such regrettable incidents have only occurred on a handful of occasions, they have, nevertheless, caused considerable damage to the public's understanding, and appreciation, of the police.

For, as Pc Beecroft, and his colleague Pc Jonny Green, demonstrated, officers invariably do not have time to carry out risk assessments and such like. They frequently have to make split-second decisions, as in this instance when their quick-thinking prevented a stolen tractor careering towards a row of parked cars, and a house, near Bingley, with potentially catastrophic consequences.

By leading by example, these two fine officers were a credit to both West Yorkshire Police and their profession.