A POLICEWOMAN who arrested a crazed gunman after tackling him has been nominated for a national bravery award.

Sergeant Sue Robinson, of Durham Constabulary, was nominated by her colleagues for the awards, sponsored by the Police Federation and The Sun newspaper.

She will stand alongside officers from across the country at a televised ceremony at London's Dorchester Hotel, on Tuesday, July 1.

Sgt Robinson, who has already received a chief constable's commendation, was serving as a constable when she was confronted by a man carrying a rifle at an early evening incident in Peterlee, County Durham.

The 31-year-old gunman, who was drunk and also armed with a knife, had been randomly firing at passing cars.

When he spotted Sgt Robinson, he pointed the weapon at her and threatened to "blow her head off" if she did not leave.

The gunman then raised his gun and told her: "I want to die and I will take you with me." He then fired at her, but his aim was off and he missed.

He made further death threats and constantly pointed the weapon at Sgt Robinson as she tracked him along the road, ignoring her instructions to put it down.

Sgt Robinson, who had recently returned to work after giving birth to a daughter, disarmed him by spraying him with CS gas and tackling him to the ground.

She was aided by a passing motorist.

It was only then that she discovered the firearm was a .22 air rifle fitted with a telescopic sight.

Steve Smith, chairman of Durham's joint branch board, said: "The officer was visibly shaken and had been fearful of her own life and the lives of members of the public.

"She demonstrated the highest personal courage and professionalism.

"Motorists were clearly at risk, and her quick thinking undoubtedly prevented serious injury."

The gunman was jailed for three years at Teesside Crown Court.

For the first time this year, the awards will be broadcast in a 90-minute programme on Channel Five, on Wednesday, July 2.