A BARNSLEY police officer who was threatened with a gun as he helped a man being attacked with a long piece of wood has won a bravery award.
In the middle of a snowstorm in the early hours of January 21, Sgt Christopher Foster was alone on patrol in Barnsley when he saw a man repeatedly hitting with the stick another man who was curled up on the floor in a ball.
As he approached the offender, the man pointed what looked like a firearm into the officer’s face, threatening to shoot him.
Sgt Foster's incapacitant spray failed and a violent struggle took place until backup arrived and the offender was restrained.
His actions led to the offender receiving a three-year prison sentence.
Sgt Foster's actions led him to winning the north east region's Police Bravery Award at a ceremony in London.
Sgt Foster said: "People are doing this day in and day out. To be singled out makes me feel a bit uncomfortable, so I would like to accept this award for the benefit of all of them."
