A policewoman hailed a heroine after she helped chase down a knife thug who attacked her before bravely returning to work was named as Natalie Markham.

Met Police top brass said she was only saved from serious injury by her anti-stab vest.

The incident happened in the Abbeville Village area of Clapham on Tuesday night as she responded to reports of a "disturbance".

On Thursday, a 35-year-old man appeared in court accused of attempting to kill her and a string of other charges.

Julian Peters, 35, of Lynette Avenue in Clapham, walked into the dock at Camberwell Green Magistrates' Court flanked by two security guards.

Peters, wearing a blue and white long-sleeve top and blue jeans, was charged with the attempted murder of the policewoman, making threats to kill, and possession of a bladed article.

He did not enter pleas, but spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth, address, and nationality, which he gave as "English, Portuguese, and Jamaican."

Deputy District Judge Claire Evans said: "You have been charged with the attempted murder of a police officer, Natalie Markham, making threats to kill, and the possession of a bladed article.

"In relation to that first matter, it can only be dealt with at the Crown Court so I'm going to send your case to the Central Criminal Court."

No application for bail was made and Peters was remanded in custody until his next court appearance on November 21.

Praising the policewoman yesterday (WED), Chief Superintendent Simon Messinger, of the Met's Central South Command Unit, said: "This was a truly shocking incident that could have easily had devastating consequences.

“It is a testament to her bravery that, despite the attack, this officer – along with her colleagues – remained focused in detaining and disarming a dangerous man.

“Importantly, it also demonstrates how effective, and unfortunately necessary, a police officer’s protective equipment is as this has potentially saved her life.”