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Tuesday, 1 January 2008, 15:08 GMT

Second man arrested over shooting

Pc Katie Johnson (photo courtesy of Lancashire Police) A second man has been arrested following a robbery in which a police officer was shot in Lancashire.

Pc Katie Johnson, 29, was shot by a robber fleeing the Hospital Inn pub on Brindle Road in Bamber Bridge, near Preston, on Monday morning.

A man in his 40s was arrested nearby a short time later and a second man aged 37, from the Manchester area, was arrested later in the evening.

The pair were arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and armed robbery.

They are being questioned at Leyland police station.

Pc Johnson was treated in hospital for 12 pellets in the top of her leg.

The dog handler was one of several officers responding to a 999 call at the pub and has been praised by Assistant Chief Constable Jerry Graham for her "considerable bravery" in challenging the armed offender.

Police said that the offenders also threatened to shoot a second officer, Pc Ian Tinsley, if he made any further steps towards them as they tried to escape from the pub.

Witness appeal

Four people were in the pub when two men wearing balaclavas burst in at about 0815 GMT. The pub's chef sustained serious head injuries in the attack and was taken to Chorley Hospital.

The Hospital Inn, Bamber Bridge

Detective Superintendent Neil Hunter refused to comment on suggestions that one member of staff at the pub had had a gun put in his mouth.

"This is a despicable crime," he said.

"The staff of the pub have been through a horrific ordeal as well - four people there were subject to extreme levels of violence. They are bearing up remarkably well.

"Members of the investigation team have spoken to both police officers involved and also to the staff who were working at the pub at the time of the offence.

"It has been a very difficult time for them and a horrific ordeal but all are making good progress.

"I would ask anyone with any information to contact us. Even the smallest of details could prove to be a significant help."

Detectives believe that a red Vauxhall Vectra with the registration plate N396 RHO and a silver or white Peugeot 406 with the registration plate V778 HOL were both connected to the robbery and are appealing for witnesses.



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Related to this story:
Shot officer praised for bravery (31 Dec 07 |  Lancashire )
Arrest after woman officer shot (31 Dec 07 |  Lancashire )

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