Gerard Kelly, 26, who works as a community and response officer at Barrhead and Giffnock Police Stations, was found lying facedown in an alleyway in St Andrews, Fife on Sunday night.

The off-duty officer, known as Gerry to colleagues and friends, was rushed to Ninewells Hospital in Dundee and is currently in an induced coma after suffering severe head and back injuries.

Police have launched a major investigation, cordoning off the area to comb it for clues.

It’s not yet known whether his injuries were caused as a result of a fall or an assault, although police have said they are considering every option including an accident involving a motor vehicle.

His family and girlfriend rushed to be at his bedside as Mr Kelly fought for his life.

Deputy area commander Alan Dickson, who is one of Gerard’s commanding officers, said: “We are not able to say what has happened to Gerry at this time.

“But he is an extremely well respected, well thought of and hard working member of our team in East Renfrewshire and we were all deeply shocked by the news.

“Our thoughts are with him and his family, and we sincerely hope he will make a full and speedy recovery.” Gerry lives in East Kilbride, and was staying in a holiday cottage in the picturesque town’s Rose Lane. The narrow cobbled alleyway he was found in is overlooked by two and three storey buildings.

Another colleague who worked with him in Barrhead, but did not wish to be named, said: “I know him quite well and he is a very mature and hard working officer.

“I was gutted to hear the news - we don’t know what has happened to him yet.” A police spokeswoman said: “Our enquiries are ongoing.”