"We had no idea what we were running towards when we heard the screams" says British Transport Police officer injured during New Year's Eve Manchester Victoria attack

A British Transport Police (BTP) sergeant who was injured during the incident at Manchester Victoria station on New Year's Eve has spoken about his experience.

Sergeant Lee Valentine, and three other BTP officers, were the first at the scene of the horrific attack and detained a man.

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Sergeant Lee Valentine, who was stabbed in the shoulder, said: “The past 48 hours have been overwhelming. My team and I are grateful to everyone who sent in messages of support – it really does mean the world to us. We had no idea what we were running towards when we heard the screams on New Year’s Eve.

"When we saw the man wielding a knife, instinct took over and we were able to, in company with Travel Safe Officers from Metrolink, successfully detain the male.”

The 25-year-old man arrested on suspicion of attempted murder has been assessed by specialist medical staff and has been detained in a secure medical facility under the Mental Health Act.

A woman and a man, both in their 50s, were taken to hospital with knife injuries. The woman had injuries to her face and abdomen and the man had injuries to his abdomen. The man has made some good progress and is expected to be released in the next day or so. His partner is also making progress, but is expected to be in hospital for longer.

Specialist detectives continue to support the couple.

Police have also concluded the search at the address in Cheetham Hill, Manchester, that was being carried out following the attack.

Speaking about the attack, BTP’s Chief Constable, Paul Crowther, said: “This horrific incident underlines the bravery of our officers, who selflessly ran towards danger to help keep the public safe.

“As the first officers on the scene, their quick-thinking and outstanding response helped to prevent more passengers being hurt and stands as a testament to the Force.

“Whilst this incident is an example of policing at its finest it also serves as a dark reminder of policing at its most dangerous. In their efforts to detain the suspect, one of our officers suffered a stab injury to his shoulder. I have met with the officer today, along with his colleagues, and I am both humbled and full of admiration at their tenacity and dedication. 

“Understandably, incidents of this nature are likely to cause concern, but I would like to reassure the public they are incredibly rare, and we have officers on duty throughout the rail network.”

Detectives are increasingly confident that the man acted alone in the final stages of the attack and the investigation will continue.

If anyone witnessed the incident or knows anything that may assist the investigation, they can contact Greater Manchester Police on 0161 856 3400.

Anyone with footage is asked to send it to FIB@gmp.police.uk

You can also report any concerns by texting British Transport Police discreetly on 61016 or by calling 0800 40 50 40.