A POLICE officer was injured before a suspected stolen car crashed into a bus.

At around 4.45pm on Wednesday (August 7), Dorset Police officers were called to reports a suspected stolen red Honda Jazz had been spotted in the area of Alexandra Road, Bridport.

“It was reported that the driver of the Honda Jazz failed to stop for officers and collided with a police vehicle, causing a serious leg injury to one of the officers,” a spokesperson said.

“The vehicle subsequently collided with a bus in the area of Abbotsbury Hill.”

A 31-year-old man from Bridport and a 39-year-old man from Bournemouth were arrested on suspicion of inflicting grievous bodily harm with intent and driving offences.

“They were taken to hospital for treatment to their injuries before they were transferred to police custody,” the spokesperson said.

“The injured officer was taken to hospital where they have since been discharged.

“There were not reports of any injuries to the occupants of the bus.”

The road was closed while investigations were carried out, re-opening at around 11.30pm.

Inspector Joseph Wheable, of the traffic unit, said: “This road traffic collision resulted in one of our officers being seriously injured in the line of duty and we are continuing to conduct enquiries to establish the full circumstances of the incident.

“I would urge any witnesses who have not already spoken to police to please contact us.

“I am also keen to hear from any motorists who were driving in the vicinity and may have captured relevant dashcam footage.”

Anyone with information should contact Dorset Police via www.dorset.police.uk, or by calling 101, quoting incident number 55240121007. They can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling 0800 555 111.