Policeman loses leg in horror crash (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Policeman loses leg in horror crash

8:54am Friday 23rd February 2007 in Swindon By Gazette Reporter

An off-duty police officer involved in a road smash yesterday afternoon has has lost a leg.

The man, from Highworth, was riding along the B4019 towards the A419 when he was in collision with a Nissan jeep at 4.55pm yesterday, near Blunsdon.

He was taken to Great Western Hospital, where his right leg had to be amputated.

The woman driving the Nissan, who was alone in the vehicle, was uninjured but was also taken to GWH suffering from severe shock.

No other vehicles were thought to be involved.

Chief Inspector Adrian Griffiths said: "People at the scene of the accident have known the officer for a number of years, which makes it more difficult to deal with, but everyone will deal with it professionally.

"Our thoughts are with his family and we really hope that he recovers."

The B4019 between Sams Lane in Blunsdon and the junction with Stanton Fitzwarren remained closed last night as detectives examined the scene.

Highworth town councillor John Toll, of The Willows, said: "I actually came across that accident yesterday when I was coming back from Blunsdon and I though it might be bad.

"I do not know the man who lost his leg but it is absolutely awful news. I hope he recovers from his operation. It is always sad when a resident of the town is caught up in something like this."

Police said the officer was seen overtaking several cars before the accident and are keen to hear from witnesses. Anyone with information is asked to call PC Mark Hood or Sgt Richard Day on 0845 408 7000.