Detectives are searching for two suspects who fled after a police officer was shot in Nottingham city centre.

Nottinghamshire Police said the officer had approached two suspects in Angel Row shortly before 04:50 BST on Sunday.

The officer is in a stable condition in hospital, where he is receiving treatment for a wound to his foot, the force added.

Detectives said a man and a woman had fled the scene and that a firearm, which could be seen within the cordon, had been found.

Angel Row is currently closed and a large police scene remains in place.

Police cars are parked along the road, which is lined by fast food stores and shops, and orange traffic cones have been laid out alongside items left on the road.

The cordon has also been extended to St James’s Street, where an officer is standing guard.

The force said there would be a heightened police presence as the investigation continues.

Assistant Chief Constable Claire Rukas said: “This is a shocking incident and a sobering reminder of the potential dangers faced by officers as they work to protect and serve the public.

“As we investigate what happened and work to apprehend the individuals involved, my thoughts today are with the injured officer, his family and colleagues.

“I also ask that anyone with additional information shares this with us without delay. Even the smallest bit of information could make all the difference to this investigation.”

Nottinghamshire Police and Crime Commissioner Gary Godden passed on his thanks to members of the public who helped the injured officer.

“Thankfully firearms incidents like this are extremely rare, which is why it is so shocking,” he said.

“My thoughts are with the officer involved, whose bravery is a credit to the force and I know detectives are working incredibly hard to progress the investigation and find those responsible.

“The incident illustrates the bravery and public service that our police officers embody every time they pull on the uniform in the name of public safety.”

Neghat Khan, leader of Nottingham City Council, said she was “deeply shocked and saddened” by news of the shooting.

“My thoughts and full support are with the injured police officer, their family, and their colleagues across Nottinghamshire Police,” she added.

​”Nottingham City Council is working tirelessly alongside the police to support the investigation and ensure those responsible are swiftly caught and brought to justice.

​”While incidents of this nature are extremely rare, our commitment to keeping Nottingham safe is absolute.

“Thanks to the daily bravery of our police and community protection officers, Nottingham remains a safe city, and residents can be assured that every available resource is being deployed.”

In a post on social media, Nadia Whittome, MP for Nottingham East, encouraged anyone with information to contact the police.

“My thoughts are with the injured police officer and his family following this truly shocking incident,” she wrote.

“We all wish him a full and speedy recovery.”

The Police Federation of England and Wales also sent its best wishes to the officer.

“This is a stark reminder of the dangers police officers face every day while protecting the public,” a spokesperson said.

“Their courage and commitment must never be taken for granted.”

Similarly, in a post on social media, East Midlands Ambulance Service said: “Sending our heartfelt thoughts and support to the injured officer, his family, and all our colleagues at Nottinghamshire Police today.

“We’re wishing him a full and speedy recovery.”

Listen to BBC Radio Nottingham on Sounds and follow BBC Nottingham on Facebook, external, on X, external, or on Instagram, external. Send your story ideas to eastmidsnews@bbc.co.uk, external or via WhatsApp, external on 0808 100 2210.