Two Cumbria police officers have been recognised for their extraordinary courage after surviving a violent and unprovoked knife attack while responding to a call for help from a vulnerable woman.

On 28 May 2025, PCs Heather Watson and Matthew Johnston attended the home of a 26 year old woman who had reported an assault. PC Watson had visited the same address just 24 hours earlier, attempting to offer support and ensure the woman’s safety.

Once inside the property, officers began speaking with the occupant. PC Johnston stepped into another room to contact the mental health crisis team to explore what immediate support could be provided.

Moments later, he heard what every officer fears most: the screams of his colleague.

Rushing back into the room, PC Johnston found the occupant attacking PC Watson with a kitchen knife. She had been stabbed in the face and was bleeding heavily. Acting instantly, PC Johnston fought to restrain the attacker, who was of large build and violently resisting. During the struggle, the woman attempted to stab him as well.

Despite her serious injuries, PC Watson continued to fight back. Demonstrating exceptional composure under extreme threat, she managed to deploy incapacitant spray and call urgently for backup. Throughout the ordeal, the attacker continued attempting to stab both officers.

Working together, the officers eventually managed to force the assailant into a separate room and secure her inside until further units arrived, including officers equipped with Taser.

PC Watson sustained slash injuries to her face and a deep wound to her nose, just two weeks before her long planned wedding day. PC Johnston was physically unharmed, though both officers have been deeply affected by the events.

The case went to court in late 2025, where the attacker was sentenced to 52 months in prison.

Reflecting on the traumatic incident, PC Watson said: “I still think about what happened every day and have flashbacks of the attack. I firmly believe that had it not been for my colleague, she would have continued her attack on me and killed me without hesitation.”

PC Johnston also described the emotional impact: “The thoughts and emotions that played through my mind and my wife’s mind following the incident were very distressing. It played on my mind a lot that it was very near a fatal incident which would have resulted in my children growing up without a dad, and, given their ages, the likelihood of them having no memory of me at all; and my wife of 11 years becoming a widow.”

Cumbria Police Federation Chair Ed Russell said: “Heather and Matt’s ordeal shows the stark reality of policing, a routine call that turned into a frenzied attack in seconds. This incident also shows why our officers are some of the best in the world.

“Despite their injuries, despite the threat, they were able to work together to protect each other and, by extension, the public from a violent offender. To be subjected to such an attack and still have the courage to fight on shows Heather’s bravery, and to run towards danger with no regard for yourself shows Matt’s.

“Both officers are extremely deserving of their nominations, and every officer in Cumbria is proud to serve alongside them.”

Cumbria Police Chief Constable Darren Martland said: “Heather and Matt were dealing with a victim and were subjected to an unprovoked brutal assault causing significant injuries. They should both be commended for their bravery, courage and professionalism in which they dealt with the situation.”

At the conclusion of the trial, Judge Nicholas Baker formally commended both officers for their bravery.