A HUSBAND whose wife was left severely brain-damaged after she was hit by a police car is suing for damages of more than £3.7m.

Linda Donaldson, 52, was knocked down by police officer Philip Wilkinson at a pelican crossing in Walker, Newcastle, in April 2002 as he was responding to an urgent call to a shop raid.

Mrs Donaldson survived, but was left in a minimally conscious state and in need of 24-hour care.

Husband John, 54, is taking legal steps to make sure he can bring his wife home and give her the care she needs.

The family are seeking damages from both Wilkinson and his former employers at Northumbria Police.

Wilkinson was convicted of dangerous driving at Newcastle Crown Court in June last year and was later forced to resign from the police force.

A writ has been issued by Osborne, Morris and Morgan solicitors at the High Court, in London, which accuses Wilkinson of negligently failing to keep a proper look-out, notice Mrs Donaldson's presence, slow down, give way, sound his horn, steer a safe and proper course and avoid collision.

Northumbria Police have declined to comment.