Tributes have been pouring in for two Cleveland Police officers described as “heroes” after their lives were cut short in the devastating A66 crash.
PC Matthew Blades and PC Tom Clough died when their marked police vehicle was involved in a crash with a Volkswagen Passat in South Bank, Middlesbrough, at 3.39am on Saturday, August 22.
The officers were among seven people who died in the crash, which has left communities across Teesside in a state of shock and grief.
Floral tributes at the scene of the A66 crash
(Image: Stuart Boulton)
Floral tributes, balloons and heartfelt messages have been left at the scene for the officers who left for their shifts but never returned home.
Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen described the crash as a “horrible and tragic incident” and said the officers would be remembered for the service and courage they showed.
Floral tributes at the scene of the A66 crash
(Image: Stuart Boulton)
He said: “Our police officers are heroes who put everything on the line to protect us, and I know all of Teesside will want to pay tribute to the officers and other emergency service workers involved for the bravery they have shown in responding to this incident.”
Floral tributes at the scene of the A66 crash
(Image: Stuart Boulton)
Chief Constable Victoria Fuller became emotional as she spoke of the loss during a press conference on Saturday afternoon.
She said: “This is an incredibly sad day for Cleveland. This loss is being felt across our communities, by our police family, and by our partner agencies.
Floral tributes at the scene of the A66 crash
(Image: Stuart Boulton)
“These were brave officers, protecting our communities and serving our residents. Who didn’t return home to their families at the end of their shift.
“My thoughts, and the thoughts of everyone at Cleveland Police, are with their families, friends, colleagues and loved ones at this incredibly difficult time.”
Floral tributes at the scene of the A66 crash
(Image: Stuart Boulton)
Sports clubs have also paid tribute to PC Blades, known as Matty, for being a much-loved friend, coach and family man.
Seaton Carew FC said he had recently joined the club as a coach and had been looking forward to leading the new Under-7 Seahawks side, including coaching his own son.
The club said Matty was a “much-loved member” of its football family and offered their condolences to his wife and two sons.
In a statement, the club said: “You will always be remembered as one of our own.”
Floral tributes at the scene of the A66 crash
(Image: Stuart Boulton)
West Hartlepool Rugby Club also paid tribute to PC Blades, describing him as a friend to many.
The club said his loss would be felt “throughout our rugby family and the wider community”.
Read more
Full statement on A66 South Bank collision from Chief Constable Victoria Fuller
What we know so far after A66 crash kills seven people, including two police officers
PM Andy Burnham ‘devastated’ as seven people killed in A66 crash near South Bank
Floral tributes at the scene of the A66 crash
(Image: Stuart Boulton)
Anna Turley, MP for Redcar and Cleveland, laid flowers in South Bank on behalf of the community and paid tribute to both officers.
She said they had been serving the community and “should have come home from their shifts”.
Ms Turley also urged people not to share AI-generated images online, asking the public to rely only on official sources out of respect for the officers and their families.