A REDDITCH policeman has been awarded £11,000 compensation from his force after being hurt on the job.

Pc Craig Cashmore received the High Court settlement after West Mercia Police Authority was found guilty of failing to provide him with adequate personal protective equipment.

They also failed to ensure that what was provided was easily accessible.

Pc Cashmore lacerated his hand and forearm, resulting in severed tendons, when he had to force entry into the home of an elderly occupant needing the help of the emergency services in March 2002.

The authority argued its case but was found liable for the injuries, which have resulted in serious and ongoing pain endured since the incident.