Two police officers were rushed to hospital with whiplash and concussion on Thursday (July 7) evening after their car was rammed by a vehicle in County Durham.

Response officers Hanratty and Jackson were on patrol around the Etherley Lane area of Bishop Auckland when they witnessed a group of people shouting and fighting in the street.

As they pulled over, one of the suspects jumped into their car and reverse rammed the police vehicle - forcing one of the officers to push the emergency button.

The suspect vehicle made off and was later located abandoned in the Etherley Dene area, according to Durham Police.

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As part of the investigation into the incident, it has been confirmed that the offending car has since been recovered for forensic examination.

The police vehicle was also recovered as it was no longer driveable.

In the aftermath of the incident, both officers attended hospital to be treated for their injuries which included whiplash and concussion.

A Durham Constabulary spokesperson said: “Thankfully my officers escaped with only minor injuries however it has understandably shaken them up.

“The individual responsible showed no remorse by running away and have shown a blatant disregard towards our communities and our ability to service their emergency calls.

“I hope they feel embarrassed and ashamed of their actions.”

Durham Police have launched a full investigation.

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