30 August 2012 Last updated at 06:34 ET

Street cleaner stabbed 'while stopping burglar'

The suspect was seen running towards Goldhawk Road

A street cleaner is in a life-threatening condition after he was stabbed when he tried to stop a suspected burglar in west London.

The Hammersmith and Fulham Council worker was stabbed in the chest on Rylett Road, Shepherd's Bush, at about 14:00 BST on Wednesday.

He was taken by air ambulance to St Mary's Hospital, Paddington.

The council's deputy leader Greg Smith said it was shocking an "act of bravery should end in such brutal violence".

He added: "Everyone at the council is thinking of our brave colleague at this difficult time.

"We understand that the police investigation is ongoing and we are hopeful that an arrest will be made soon."

Police said the suspect was believed to have run from the scene toward Goldhawk Road.