GALLERY: Injured Pc Claire Bond cheered at Stafford 10k finish line
She's bravely battled back from serious injury after being run over by a drug dealer while on duty.
And Pc Claire Bond proved to be "tough and resilient" as she managed to walk the final kilometre to complete last weekend's Stafford 10k.
The police officer had been out protecting runners at last year's event when she was struck by banned driver Gurajdeep Malhi's rented BMW.
Pc Bond feared for her life - and those taking part in the annual Stafford 10k nearby - as she was thrown to the ground as she tried to stop him ploughing into runners.
She suffered fractures to her leg and knee in the horrific crime and has not been able to return to frontline duties since.
Malhi, 26, was sentenced earlier this month to serve more than 12 years in prison.
Sunday's race was an emotional experience as Pc Bond was joined at the finish line by her husband Darren and colleague Pc Dave Mullins.
She was pushed in a wheelchair by Sgt John Rainsbury from the start but completed the final stretch using a walking stick – hand-in-hand with Darren and Dave.
See our picture gallery from the day:
Mr Rainsbury said: “She is tough and resilient.
“Claire said she was extremely thankful and grateful for everyone who turned up and supported her in the 10k, and for all the support over the last 12 months.”
It took them around 20 minutes to get past the starting line due to all the runners coming up and speaking to her.
And Mr Rainsbury said runners were still wishing her well as they passed them in the final kilometre, despite being tired.
Runners wanted to wish her luck as it has been an uphill battle for Pc Bond after she suffered her injuries.
Her colleague, Pc Mullins, pulled her to safety and helped stop any further injuries during the incident.
She credits him with saving her life.
And it made it even more poignant that Pc Mullins was at her side to see her over the finish line in Stafford on Sunday.
Mr Rainsbury continued: “She is a very strong-willed lady.
“If there is an opportunity for her to return as a front-line officer, she will find a way.
“I have known her for 15 years as a colleague and friend. She is a very good police officer and a very good friend.
“This just shows by the amount of support she has received by everyone.”
Pc Bond took part in the run in aid of COPS, a charitable organisation which stands for Care of Police Survivors Cops.
She has raised more than £1,000 and is appealing for more people to support her cause.
Visit her fundraising page at www.justgiving.com/Claire-Bond19
