A CHESTER police officer was injured while attending the running of the bulls in Pamplona, Spain.

Neighbours heard PC Gareth Cooper was gored while watching the spectacle but colleagues who received a text message believe he may have been trampled.

PC Cooper, who lives in Eccleston and works out of Mickle Trafford station, is believed to be on holiday with a group of male friends.

A 27-year-old Spanish man was gored to death last Friday, during the fourth bull run of the week-long San Fermin festival.

Portrait photographer Gary Talbot, who lives in Eccleston, is a friend of PC Cooper.

“I was just told he was gored in the bull race but he’s left hospital and he’s OK,” said Mr Talbot, who played for Chester City FC in the 1960s.

He said PC Cooper, a single man, who is aged about 50, had gone away with three male friends and was expected back on Wednesday.

“I think it’s the second or third time he’s been to Pamplona,” added Mr Talbot.

“I’m sorry to hear about what’s happened. I’m just pleased he’s out of hospital and on his way back to England.”

Cheshire Police stated: “Whilst on holiday abroad earlier this week, Gareth was injured at a cultural event that took place in Spain. He has received medical treatment and will return home later this week.”