A driver who seriously injured two police officers in a car crash has been jailed for three years and four months.

Mohammed Shaikh, 48, of Amberden Avenue, East Finchley, admitted to two counts of causing serious injury by dangerous driving on January 16, and was sentenced today (February 22) at Harrow Crown Court.

On December 17 last year, Shaikh lost control of his white Maserati sports car on the North Circular Road, travelling eastbound towards Brent Cross, and mounted the curb.

He collided with PCs Christopher Appleton and Samantha Clark, of Brent borough, who were searching the area to trace a suspect.

PC Appleton was hit first, but PC Clark became trapped between the car and a house, requiring further officers to remove her, and both were critically injured, sustaining multiple fractures and internal bleeding.

Superintendent Andy McNaughton, Acting Borough commander for Brent, said: “Shaikh's dangerous driving led to a collision with two of my officers who sustained serious injuries.

“Were it not for the actions of their colleagues at the scene, their injuries may well have proved fatal. Sam and Chris are exceptional officers who have demonstrated extraordinary courage.

“They have had extensive surgery and are on a long and painful rehabilitation programme. They are both fully committed to getting back to work which speaks volumes of their character. With the support of their families and colleagues I have no doubt they will achieve this.

“Police and other emergency services routinely deal with road traffic collisions where people have been injured, but this was particularly harrowing for the officers who attended to their injured colleagues.

“Shaikh was swiftly arrested, and pleaded guilty at the first opportunity. The sentence handed down reflects the severity of the collision and the injury caused.”

Shaikh was arrested at the scene and charged on December 18 on the two counts he admitted and one count of failing to provide a specimen of breath.

He was also sentenced to four extra months for failing to provide the specimen, to run concurrently, and has been disqualified from driving for six years and three months.

He will be required to take an extended driving test upon his release.