A POLICE constable who tested positive for Covid 19 after policing an anti-lockdown rally in Bournemouth has been admitted to hospital.

According to the Dorset Police Federation, the organisation representing rank-and-file officers across the county, the constable has been hospitalised with a suspected blood clot on his lung.

Meanwhile, Dorset Police Assistant Chief Constable Sam de Reya said: "Our thoughts are very much with this officer, his family, loved ones and colleagues and we will do all we can to support them.

“While the officers’ infection could not be directly linked to what happened, it puts into perspective the dangerous nature of policing.

“Our officers and staff have remained on the frontline throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, putting themselves in harm’s way to engage with our communities, protect the vulnerable, enforce Covid-19 regulations and tackle crime.

"We are incredibly proud of them.”

Earlier this week the Echo reported how two police officers contracted Covid-19 days after policing a high-profile anti-lockdown rally in Bournemouth on Saturday, January 9.

READ: Two police officers get Covid after Bournemouth Protest

The man and a woman, both PCs, had been self-isolating at home with their families.

Speaking while self-isolating at home, the 40-year-old officer who has since been admitted to hospital said: "Falling so ill has made me really anxious for my family.

"I’ve got a young son who is nine and my partner is high risk as she’s got asthma. Thankfully they haven’t become ill, neither have got symptoms which is a real blessing, but doesn’t stop you worrying about it."

READ: Dorset Police officer speaks out over Covid sickness

The officer, with 17 years experience with Dorset Police, also stressed: "We are thrust into the areas where we are at most risk of catching it.

"So police officers should get the vaccine as a priority.”

The news of the officers falling ill came as Dorset Police Federation also pushed for frontline police officers do be included on the priority list for vaccinations.

Anna Harvey, chairman of the Dorset Police Federation, said: "This is a reminder of the extra risks our officers are facing on a daily basis.

"As I have previously said, police officers do not have a choice - they can't stay at home, they have to protect our communities. 

"It saddens me to say that there is every chance this officer would not be inthis position if police officers had been prioritised for the Covid-19 vaccine." 

On the latest development, a Dorset Police spokesman said: "We can confirm that one of the two officers, who were part of the policing operation for the planned protest activity in Bournemouth town centre on Saturday 9 January 2021 and later contracted Covid-19, has sadly been admitted to hospital."

Among those wishing the officer well online was Paul Eyles, who said: "I, like many others, will be wishing the officer all the very best and a speedy recovery.

Lindsey Ramer posted: "I hope he recovers from this evil virus. Protecting his community.

"Thank you to our services."