A police officer who was shot in the arm while chasing a gunman has been officially commended for his bravery.

PC Wayne Stevens was twice fired at as he pursued Damian Devine in South Croydon in July 2011.

Metropolitan Police commissioner Sir Bernard Hogan-Howe also commended PC Mike Sheather, who continued to chase Devine after the shooting.

Mr Stevens, who has now returned to work after recovering from his injuries, said: "Looking back at what happened, it all still seems very surreal.

"I am very grateful for all the support of my colleagues during and after the incident and am extremely honoured to be receiving such a prestigious award."

Mr Hogan-Howe said: "Every day officers are out in communities, attending emergency situations and going to great lengths to ensure the streets of London are safe. 

"These commendations are a small way for me to recognise and thank some of those officers for their exceptional actions."

In November Devine was jailed for 26 years behind bars for attemped murder and possession of a firearm.

After the sentencing, Mr Stevens revealed how the shooting had "turned my world upside down".

He said: "“It has affected me and my family a lot, it has put a strain on our relationship. 

“It has been a tough time and the memories are still there of what happened, especially when I am working in the area."

He added: “We had no intelligence that he had a gun.

"There is a risk that he could have been armed, but we are trying to protect other people. No-one expects to get shot at work."