Hero thanked for saving life of Sheffield police officer attacked with axe

A hero who saved the life of a police officer who was attacked with an axe has been thanked by her colleagues.
Hero Simon Ellis meets Sheffield police officersHero Simon Ellis meets Sheffield police officers
Hero Simon Ellis meets Sheffield police officers

Simon Ellis, aged 46, of Plowright Close, Gleadless Valley, intervened when 31-year-old PC Lisa Bates came under attack as she called at a nearby flat.

PC Bates suffered a fractured skull, broken leg and severe hand injuries in the attack, which colleagues say could have killed her if Mr Ellis had not stepped in.

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Staff at Woodseats police station, where PC Bates is based, presented the hero with a thank you card and gift during a visit to meet them.

They said they hope there is some formal recognition of his efforts in the future.

A South Yorkshire Police spokesman said: "He was given an update on Lisa's recovery, spoke to several of her colleagues and was thanked by them.

"He was also presented with a card and a small token of thanks from the team.

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"It was thanks to his willingness to come forward that Lisa was not killed.

"Police officers are trained to run towards danger when others are running away. Simon Ellis confronted danger on that night and we will always be grateful to him for his efforts."We remain thankful for the continued support and good wished shown by the wider community and we look forward to continuing to work together for a safer Sheffield."The force will continue to support Simon in the weeks and months ahead. Hopefully his efforts will receive more formal recognition in the future.

"Lisa is now at home recovering with her family and friends. We wish her a speedy recovery."

Violence flared last month when PC Bates and a colleague arrived at a flat in Plowright Close following a call to the property.

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The incident spilled out into the Co-op in nearby Blackstock Road, where a number of other officers were injured.

Nathan Sumner, aged 35, of Plowright Close, Gleadless Valley, has been charged with attempted murder, six counts of assault by beating, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, two counts of making threats to kill, affray, threatening a person with a blade in a public place and production of cannabis.

He is remanded in custody.