Off-duty police officer stabbed during robbery

An off-duty police officer has been taken to hospital after being stabbed in Luton

An off-duty police officer was taken to hospital after he was stabbed while trying to thwart a knifepoint robbery in Luton.

Bedfordshire Police was called to the scene just outside Luton Point in George Street at about 13:10 GMT on Saturday.

Two men believed to be in their 20s stole a moped while brandishing a large knife or machete at the rider before stabbing the policeman who tried to intervene.

The officer from the Metropolitan Police has been described as "heroic" by his Bedfordshire colleagues. His injuries are not deemed to be life-threatening.

A large police presence will be maintained in Luton town centre following the stabbing

Det Insp Jon Stow, from Luton CID, called it a "brazen attack" and said police would maintain a high-visibility presence in the town centre following the incident.

Temporary Chief Constable Dan Vajzovic said: "Wanton violence of this level is utterly appalling and has no place on the streets of our county.

"Thankfully, the officer is expected to make a full recovery, though this story could have been very different.

"I speak on behalf of the force and wider public in thanking him for his bravery and selflessness in the line of duty. His actions were nothing short of heroic."

Bedfordshire Police and Crime Commissioner John Tizard said: "This is one of many examples of police officers putting themselves at risk in the public interest and to protect members of the public. Selfless interventions like this and effective policing are critical to making Bedfordshire's streets safer.

"Even when off duty, this Met officer was ready to step into danger to protect others. On behalf of the people of Bedfordshire I thank him for his courageous action, and wish him all the best for a speedy recovery."

Police are appealing for anyone with the information about the incident to come forward.

One of the suspects was wearing a black jacket and trousers while the other was wearing a dark jacket and grey tracksuit bottoms with a white stripe down the side.

PC Jon Henry was fatally stabbed in the same street in 2007.