Your views: YEP readers praise brave off-duty officer knifed after confronting Leeds shoplifter

An off-duty officer was stabbed today at HMV in Lands Lane, Leeds. Picture: Tony Johnson.

YEP readers have been full of praise today for the off-duty police officer who was slashed with a knife when he confronted a suspected shoplifter in the city centre.

The officer was taken to hospital for treatment to injuries to his neck, face and hand after the attack at HMV in Leeds this morning.

Police have now confirmed that he has been released from hospital.

Video: Off-duty policeman slashed with knife as he confronts Black Friday shoplifting suspect in LeedsYOUR VIEWS

Here are some of the comments and messages of support you’ve shared so far on our Facebook page.

Tony O’Connor: “I truly hope the officer makes a full recovery. Store staff deserve recognition for detaining the suspect. They must be in a lot of distress. This behaviour is not welcome in our city.”

Lulah Bell: “Police protect us even when they are not on duty, forever vigilant, they don’t get the recognition or respect they deserve. Well done that officer. Wishing the officer a full and speedy recovery. Our society is broken... Our emergency services need more resources...”

Ellie Smith: “This is terrible. Poor man. I’m the sort of person who confronts shoplifter. Recently I tripped up a shoplifter escaping from ASDA. Makes me think twice now.”

Andrew Wakefield: “I hope the officer is okay. They have my utmost respect. Get well soon.”

Derek Johnson: “True courage by the officer. Hope he gets well soon and is rewarded for his brave actions.”

Aiden Fryer: “Absolutely disgusting over a few pounds off a few items. We don’t give enough credit to the police officers.”

Ayub Khan: “Should be charged with attempted murder and serve nothing less than 25 years in prison. My thoughts are with the police and the brave officer who was injured in this senseless attack.”

Craig Shackleton: “Hope the police officer will be OK and it’s good news that they got some one for it. Well done West Yorkshire Police.”