A BISHOP Auckland policeman has been praised for his quick thinking and bravery after he stopped a disturbed man from setting fire to himself in the middle of a hospital waiting room.

Dozens of patients were evacuated during the drama at Bishop Auckland General Hospital last July.

The man had stormed into the accident and emergency department shouting at staff.

Witnesses looked on in horror as he doused himself in petrol, held up a cigarette lighter and threatened to set himself alight.

PC Neill Baker, who will be presented with an area commander's letter of commendation, managed to keep the man talking until he eventually handed over both the can and the lighter.

He was later sectioned under the Mental Health Act and it emerged he had been told he faced an eight week wait to see a doctor about a serious skin complaint.

PC Baker, 41, said: "His skin was in a terrible condition and I can understand how he felt the way he did.

"He was absolutely dripping in the fluid and seemed determined to set himself alight.

"We managed to arrange for medical attention and hopefully he got the treatment he needed."

Superintendent Graham Hall said: "PC Baker's actions were quick, measured and calm.

"With no thought for himself he acted far and above the expected norm."