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One of Britain's top policemen volunteered to be shot with a 50,000 volt Taser stun gun in a bid to convince the public they are safe to use.

In a video released for the first time, Greater Manchester Police's Chief Constable Michael Todd convulses in agony as two wire barbs hit him in the back.

He then collapses to the floor in excruciating pain before being helped to his feet by two fellow officers, and exclaiming: "It hurt like hell!"

The footage was released to support plans announced by Home Secretary John Reid to extend the use of Tasers by police officers.

Currently only police on firearms duties carry the Taser guns as a 'non lethal' option when dealing with dangerous incidents where previously they would have had no alternative but to shoot a suspect.

The footage was filmed in 2005 shortly after Tasers began being used by the police - amid claims they may cause deaths.

Mr Todd was so convinced of their safety he volunteered to be hit with a Taser - and one lucky officer got the chance to shoot his boss.

The video was filmed for internal GMP use only, until they agreed to release the footage following the Home Secretary's comments.

Mr Todd said: "The news that the use of Taser guns will be extended to more than just firearms officers, subject to trials and final medical advice, is one that is welcomed by GMP.

"I hope that we are one of the forces selected for the trial and I await confirmation from ACPO with interest."

Tasers work by firing metal barbs into the skin which then discharge a 50,000 volt electrical charge which is designed to temporarily disable someone long enough to allow police to detain them safely.

The Home Office say if the go-ahead is given to extend their use trials could begin in September.

© Independent Television News Limited 2007. All rights reserved.