A hero policeman needed surgery to his hand after selflessly stepping in to stop a suicidal man trying to stab himself.

PC Ben Jeffries tackled the man who was armed with a large kitchen knife in the Duston area of Northampton.

Disturbing video footage taken by another officer's body camera shows the aftermath of the incident, with the man screaming as he is arrested and PC Jeffries hunched over on the floor.

He is shown nursing and deep cut to his left hand, as he calmly tells colleagues to call an ambulance.

Shocking body cam footage shows the moments after PC Ben Jeffries was stabbed in the hand as he tried to disarm a suicidal man

PC Jeffries was later rushed to hospital for surgery on the cut and has now been nominated for a Police Bravery Award.

Steve Pace, Chairman of the Northamptonshire Police Federation, said: 'PC Jeffries should be commended for his selfless actions.

'He put himself at considerable personal risk and was viciously attacked, all in the line of duty when protecting others.'

The incident happened after PC Jeffries was called to a domestic incident in July last year.

The man at first appeared calm but, as the policeman went to speak on his radio, pulled out the knife and tried to stab himself in the chest.

His colleague PC Nicky Brooks arrested the man, who was later given an 18-month suspended sentence.

The footage later showed the knife which injured PC Jeffries, who is up for a bravery award

PC Jeffries is one of 71 officers from 40 different police forces to be nomimated for a bravery award.

Stephen Mann, CEO Police Mutual which is sponsoring the event, said: 'I am always astounded by police officers' acts of bravery and my colleagues and I continue to be inspired by their dedication.

'They are a true inspiration and I feel privileged and humbled to be part of the awards again.'