Man denies attempting to murder police officers

Declan Diedrick appeared at Chelmsford Crown Court via a video link from HMP Bedford

A man has denied attempting to murder two police officers with a kitchen knife.

PC Hollie Matthews and acting Sgt Gemma Sandy were injured during the alleged incident in Harlow in Essex on 29 December 2023.

They had been to Hull Grove to respond to concerns for a man's welfare at about 17:45 GMT, Essex Police said.

Declan Diedrick, 25, of Hull Grove, will stand trial at Chelmsford Crown Court on 20 October.

Appearing at court via a video link from HMP Bedford, he also denied possession of a knife and two offences of causing the officers grievous bodily harm with intent.

One was treated in hospital after allegedly being stabbed in the head, while the other did not require further treatment.

A brief hearing at Chelmsford Crown Court on Friday was told the alleged weapon was a kitchen knife.