A police officer who suffered severe burns in an attack in Newquay has been named as PC Darral Mares.

The army veteran, 51, is said to be in a stable condition at Derriford Hospital in Plymouth after ‘sustaining a number of burns to his arms and legs’ during an incident in Newquay at 10.20am on Friday.

Blagovest Hadjigueorguiev, 30, appeared at Truro Magistrates’ Court today, facing charges of arson with intent to endanger life and causing grievous bodily harm with intent against a police officer.

He is also charged with attempting to cause grievous bodily harm against a second officer, who was left uninjured in the same incident.

Hadjigueorguiev did not enter a plea and spoke only to confirm his details as he appeared on Saturday, Chief Superintendent Ian Drummond-Smith, police commander for Cornwall said.

Police were called to the scene on Trevenson Road on Friday following reports of a man behaving aggressively as bailiffs carried out an eviction on private land.

PC Mares is said to be ‘sat up and in good spirits’ after he was airlifted to hospital. His injuries have been described as severe but not life-threatening.

The former soldier is a ‘popular and well-known officer’ who has been in the police force for 18 years. His family has been at his bedside and is being supported by the force.

Newquay Police posted an update on Twitter on Friday, which said: ‘The injured officer and his colleagues @PoliceNewquay@NewquayResponse would like to sincerely thank all those who have sent kind messages of support. His condition is stable and he is receiving treatment.’

Dave Meredith, who recently retired from the position of police inspector in Newquay, added: ‘I have had the privilege of working alongside this officer for over a decade. You could find no better police officer and friend. All the best and get well soon mate!’

Hadjigueorguiev has been remanded into custody and will next appear before Truro Crown Court on October 13.

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