PC 'bears no malice' against Raoul Moat for shooting

THE police officer shot in the face by Raoul Moat said yesterday that he bore "no malice" towards the killer who may have left him blind.

In a statement issued through Northumbria Police, PC David Rathband, 42, thanked everyone who had helped him and sent him messages of support.

He said: "I bear no malice towards the man who shot me but now wish to move on with my life. I am acutely aware of the impact events have had on many people and my thoughts are with them all."

In a statement released yesterday, the force revealed the married father of two could lose the sight in both eyes.

In his statement, PC Rathband said: "I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has helped me, in particular those officers who came to my immediate aid at the scene and helped to save my life. All the medical and nursing staff who have cared for me have been fantastic and I am indebted to them.

"I am grateful to all those officers from many forces who have helped me and my family during the last week and to my own shift of officers who have given me their full support. The good wishes, cards and letters I have received, some from total strangers, have moved me greatly. I wish to personally thank the chief constable for her support.

"My injuries are life-changing. It will require significant adjustments in the future in all aspects of my life. I enjoy my job as a police officer and I am totally committed to serving the public. Although I face long-term treatment, I am determined to return to duty as a police officer."