TWO brave police officers who chased a joyrider when he abandoned a Land Rover on a level crossing in the path of a packed passenger train have received top awards.

More than 50 passengers escaped unhurt when the train smashed into the vehicle on the Toddington Lane level crossing at Littlehampton in January.

The two Littlehampton officers leapt into action and tried to move the vehicle out of the way of the Cardiff to Brighton train before arresting the offender.

The vehicle had been abandoned on the track following a police chase and the driver leapt from the vehicle seconds before the impact.

PCs Mark Brown and Chalky White spoke of their pride today after being honoured for their dedication and professionalism at a ceremony.

They received their awards at Worthing Town hall from mayor Coun David Chapman.

The officers managed to chase the offender and made an arrest despite the chaos around them.

PC Mark Brown, 35, said: "We were both in the patrol car and were following the Land Rover that was refusing to stop. He was driving erraticlaly and went onto the tracks.

"The man ran from the vehicle and Chalky ran after him and detained him down the road.

"I ran up to the Land Rover with the intention of moving it.

"But then I saw the train speeding towards me and decided I could not move it in time so I ran back.

"The train struck the Land Rover and knocked it into a barrier. There was an almighty explosion and loads of flames.

"We were determined to catch the offender because we just could not believe what he had just done.

"I thought the train was going to derail. It could have been much much worse.

"It was just one of those lucky things. But it is very nice to be recognised for our efforts."

PC Chalky White, 33, said: "It was like being in a Bond film. There was a car chase and then a train smash. You could say it was an interesting day!"

The repair bill for the Cardiff to Brighton train is at least £200,000 and repairs to the track and crossing could add another £130,000 to the bill.

The joyrider, Brian Kirby, 27, of Clun Road, Wick, admitted abandoning the vehicle last month and was jailed for 18 months.

PC Mark Tester, based at Littlehampton, also received an award for commitment and professionalism after setting up community initiatives in the town.

And PCs Geoffrey Cooper, Tony Taylor and Stephen Hanlon all received a bravery award after tackling a man who held his child hostage at a house in Findon.

Det Con Candy Knott, also based at Worthing, received an award for her care and professionalism after liaising with a 16-year-old indecent assault victim. As a result a man was jailed for six years at Chichester Crown Court.

And PC John Chate, based at Littlehampton, was given an award for his enthusiasm and commitment after tackling the problem of under-age drinking in the town.

Det Con David Hirst, based at Worthing, won an award for investigative skills and professionalism.

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