A TRAFFIC officer who risked his life to save other motorists from a fugitive who was speeding the wrong way down a dual carriageway has been honoured with a Chief Constable's Commendation.

Traffic constable Michael Hancock was patrolling the A1 in June two years ago. when he stopped an Astra van suspected of being used in an incident in Catterick

But, as his partner got out of the car to speak to the driver, the Astra did a sudden U-turn and sped off into oncoming traffic.

PC Hancock followed the fugitive, sticking to the hard shoulder and using his flashing lights to warn other motorists.

Two collisions occurred in which three motorists were injured and the Astra driver was killed., but at a ceremony on Friday, the audience was told that PC Hancock 'undoubtedly saved lives and prevented further injury.'

Commendations also went to PC Andrew Langford, PC Dave Clayton, Traffic Sgt Brian Trickett, Det Con Mark Willock, PC Mark Waddington, PC John Trueman, PC Russ Harper, PC Nicky Durkin, TC Andy Richardson and Det Con Paul Johnson.