PC axe attacker Nathan Sumner guilty of GBH

A man who attacked a policewoman with an axe has been found guilty of causing grievous bodily harm (GBH) with intent.

PC Lisa Bates lost a finger, suffered a deep wound to her head, sustained a fractured skull and a smashed ankle during the attack on 13 April.

Nathan Sumner, 35, repeatedly hit her with the axe when she was called to a disturbance at his flat in Sheffield.

He was cleared of attempted murder at Sheffield Crown Court, which heard he had suffered from a psychotic episode.

Judge Julian Goose QC said he wanted to hear more about Sumner's current mental state before sentencing on 2 December.

South Yorkshire Police said PC Bates managed to call for help on her police radio as Sumner fled while being pursued by another officer.

She was "pulled to safety" to a neighbouring flat by a witness until paramedics and police arrived, the force said.

The 32-year-old officer, who is based at Sheffield's Woodseats Police Station, was "still recovering from her injuries and remains unable to return to work".

PC Bates said: "I would like to say thank you to the investigation team, my police colleagues and the public for their constant support and kind messages during what has been a very difficult time."

The force said it remained "hopeful she will, in time, make a full recovery but this will take some time due to the severity of her injuries".

PC Bates and PC Mark Garrett were on duty when they called to the Gleadless area "to help a potentially vulnerable" person.

Det Insp Paul Wilson said: "He showed absolutely no regard for the consequences of his violent actions, and it's a stark reminder of the potential danger our officers face every single day and I wish PC Bates the very best in her continued recovery."