SPEAKING after the case Clive Chamberlain, Dorset Police Federation chairman, said: “There is no doubt that Craig was extremely fortunate to have survived from this horrific attack.

“Michael Edward was a criminal armed with a large knife – a weapon that he used in an attempt to kill a police officer who was carrying out his duty to protect his community.

“This incident demonstrates what an inherently dangerous job police officers undertake each day and I hope that this sentence sends a clear message to anyone who may ever consider carrying a knife.

“I am pleased to say that Craig has made a full recovery and has resumed his valued work in Bournemouth – although we should not underestimate the effect that this incident has had on him, his loved ones and colleagues.

“Police officers are an integral part of every community and I am heartened by the support that Craig and his colleagues have received from members of the public. I am sure that Dorset residents will welcome today’s sentencing.”

He said: “I believe if someone intends to kill someone, they should not be released from prison. If they are prepared to take someone’s life they should forfeit their freedom and be handed a life sentence.

“I believe everyone caught carrying a knife should receive a substantial custodial sentence to act as a deterrent to others.

“Thankfully this type of crime is very rare in Dorset but it has been a huge wake-up call, reminding officers that our job is a dangerous one and you never know what is round the corner.

“It has reminded us all that people do go out armed and are prepared to cause harm to people just because of the job they do and the uniform they wear.”