which he suffered when a patrol car hit his van.

Mr. Colin Palmer says he has been in pain since a Police sergeant ran a red light at high speed and crashed into him.

Police have offered to pay his expenses of $10,800 so far, he said this week, but only if he gives up any future claims.

Mr. Palmer wants the cash with no strings attached, to help him pay for his children's education.

The accident occurred in January, 1992, on the corner of Dundonald Street and Cedar Avenue. His van was a few days old.

"As a consequence of the accident I have a bad back,'' said Mr. Palmer, who runs two water treatment firms. "I'm always in pain and I can't do my proper job on the heavy engineering side because of it.'' He said witnesses reported that the patrol car did not have its flashing blue light on.

"My wife and I spent out for time off work, doctors' fees and the rest of it, and I'm still getting problems with my back,'' he complained.

"But I can't get my money and there was nothing done about it -- he wasn't charged with running a red light, dangerous driving or excessive speed.

"They've offered to give me the money we have paid out. But they won't pay it until we give them a disclaimer saying we will never claim again.

"I'm asking for my money back as an interim payment and if my back goes out again I shall be entitled to a claim from them.

"I'm not extorting any money out of them. I'm saying they must give me what is due to me and we'll sort the rest out later.'' Mr. Palmer said he had fired two "prominent'' lawyers for inaction over his claim.

"They have just sat on it because it's not a big case.'' But he was still planning to sue over the $10,800. "It's a cut and dried case,'' he claimed.

A Police comment was not available last night.