A police officer was stabbed after trying to arrest a man following a robbery in Sutton last night.

The incident happened before 7pm yesterday (January 2) after reports of a knife-point robbery close to St James Road.

Sutton High Street was the scene of the stabbing of the male officer as he chased the suspect on foot before detaining him.

During the arrest, the police constable was stabbed on his leg.

His injuries are not life threatening and he remains in a stable condition in a south London hospital.

The man was arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm and robbery. He remains in custody.

Sutton Borough Commander, Robyn Williams, said: “Thankfully, incidents of this nature are rare. However, they highlight the risks officers face on a daily basis whilst carrying out their duties.

“Officers regularly run towards danger in order to protect the public; for one to be assaulted in such a way is totally unacceptable, and it is only by luck that his injuries were not more serious.

“Our thoughts are with the officer, his family and colleagues.”

The victim of the robbery was also taken to hospital with minor injuries. He did not suffer stab wounds.