Fundraiser for police officer hit by train while helping 'distressed man' raises £52k

The officer has been left with life-changing injuries

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Holly Bishop

By Holly Bishop


Published: 29/08/2023

- 16:02

The fundraiser was set up just three days ago

A fundraiser for a policeman who was left in a critical condition after he was hit by a train has raised over £50k.

The officer left with life-changing injuries, after he was struck by the moving train whilst he was helping a “distressed” man on a railway line in Balderton, Nottinghamshire.


The police officer, who has not been named but is believed to be a sergeant, is being treated at Queen’s Medical Centre.

He was rushed to hospital after the incident on Thursday, where he is in a critical condition.

Police near the scene in Balderton, near Newark-on-Trent

The police officer is currently being treated for life-changing injuries

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The “distressed” man who was saved by the sergeant was also taken to hospital but with non-life-threatening electrocution injuries.

A fundraising page has reached £52,000 since it was first set up three days ago.

The proceeds will go to the officer and his family.

Their current target is £100,000 and so far over 2,932 individuals have donated.

The description on the justgiving.com page reads: “This is an appeal to the community in order to assist the injured police officer and his family following a terrible ordeal whereby an officer has sustained life altering injuries in the line of duty whilst saving the life of another individual.

“This is the epitome of policing bravery. The long-term outcome for the officer and his family and rehabilitation moving forward is going to be difficult and challenging.

“This fund will hopefully assist in many areas of their lives which they will now have to adapt and adjust considerably.”

“Please help us help this brave selfless officer and his family. Give what you can.”

Messages on the site praised the officer for “an incredible act of selfless bravery”.

A well-wisher said: “Healing and recovery will be a tough journey, but please stay focused on recovery and keep a positive mental attitude and surround yourself with positive people. Stay focused on the things you will still be able to do and never give up.”

Police and railway workers near the scene in Balderton, near Newark-on-Trent

Almost 3,000 people have donated to the fundraiser

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Nottingham Police Chief Constable Kate Meynell said: “This is a truly devastating incident that has left one of our officers very poorly in hospital.

“We are supporting his family and ensuring that he gets all the care and support he needs.

“This was also extremely traumatic for all those who attended the scene, some of whom provided immediate medical assistance while the ambulance was on its way.

“I would like to personally thank them for their quick and dedicated response to this incident.

“Officers and police staff put themselves in danger every day to keep the public safe and from harm and I personally want to say how eternally grateful and proud I am of them all.”

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