A POLICE special officer lost a leg in a crash after stopping, while off duty, to help the victim of a crash on the M42.

Ben Perry, a Droitwich special constable, had his leg amputated after the crash at the central reservation between junction 2 (Hopwood) and junction 1 (Bromsgrove) on the M42.

Mr Perry was off-duty when he saw a crash on the M42 and went to help, stopping in the hard shoulder.

When he returned to his car fetch a kit from his boot he was struck by a passing car and thrown into the carriageway.

His lower right leg was amputated. He is now in a stable condition in hospital where he will require further surgery and will remain for the foreseeable future.

A fundraising appeal has been seet up and, so far, £1,500 has been raised towards a target of £10,000.

Police and crime commissioner John Campion said: ''My thoughts are with Ben and his family, and I wish him well with his recuperation.

"He acted selflessly, facing potential dangers, in order to help others; yet another example of the work of our volunteers, which I always find so very humbling.

"As part of my behind the badge campaign, I am calling for people to see the person behind the uniform and this is an outstanding example of someone going above and beyond to help others.''

West Mercia assistant chief constable Martin Evans said: ''Ben acted to protect people from harm and his selfless actions are a credit to the force.

"He has paid a high price for going to the public's aid and our thoughts are with him and his family.''

Others including special chief officer Nick Marlow have praised Mr Perry dedication and selflessness.

Mr Perry said: ''(I am) blown away by the kindness and support received. My biggest worries is not being able to go on duty again after my injury as I love it so much.''

Mr Perry was injured on Friday March 9.

To donate to his Just Giving page, visit justgiving.com/crowdfunding/benperry