NORTH Yorkshire Police have paid tribute to two police officers who were killed in a crash that took place over the weekend.
Seven people, including two police officers, were killed in a crash on the A66 at South Bank, near Middlesbrough, at around 3.39am on Saturday (August 22).
The crash happened in Cleveland during the early hours of Saturday, with North Yorkshire Police officers attended the scene to support colleagues and help respond to the incident.
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The North Yorkshire Police Federation has expressed its support for everyone affected.
Branch secretary Tony Barnes said: “Our thoughts are with the families, friends and colleagues of everyone who has lost their life in this terrible collision, and with all those who have been affected.
“To hear that two police officers are among those who have died is particularly heartbreaking. They went to work this morning to serve and protect their communities, and tragically they will not be going home to their families.
“We also want to recognise all those who attended the scene, including those from North Yorkshire Police. No doubt, they, alongside other emergency services colleagues from across the region, have been dealing with an incredibly difficult and distressing situation with professionalism and compassion.
“Policing is a family, and when something as devastating as this happens, that family comes together. Our colleagues in Cleveland know that they have our full support, and we will stand alongside them in the difficult days ahead.”
Floral tributes at the scene of the A66 crash
(Image: Stuart Boulton)
The force also shared tributes made by the families of officers PC Tom Clough and PC Matthew Blades - adding: "Many of our officers and staff have strong friendships and professional relationships with those serving in Cleveland.
"It is a tragedy beyond words that Matthew and Tom did not return home after completing their shifts."
The family of PC Tom Clough said: "He was our hero with a fantastic sense of humour. Jumped into action whenever needed, and willing to help anyone for any reason. Proudly fought for his country to make the world a better place. Always on public duty throughout his short life.
"We as a family and Tom's partner would like to express our sincere gratitude for the overwhelming support and condolences from friends, colleagues and the wider community".
The wife of PC Matthew Blades said: "No words will ever feel like the right words to honour our Matt — my beloved husband, my best friend, and the most devoted father to our two young boys.
PC Tom Clough, one of the officers who was sadly killed in the collision on the A66 in the early hours of Saturday 22 August
(Image: CLEVELAND POLICE)
"He was an adored son and brother, a perfect son-in-law, and the most fun uncle. He was loved beyond words by all his family and friends, and his loss has left a space that can never be filled.
"He gave his life in the line of duty, protecting and serving others with courage, dedication and selflessness.
"The pain of losing him is beyond words, and our lives will never be the same. Neither will the love he gave us ever fade.
"Our children will grow up knowing what an incredible father he was and will always be, and I will carry his love, his memory and everything we shared with me always.
"He may have left this world committed to the duty he believed in, but his greatest legacy will always be the love he gave to his family.
PC Matthew Blades
(Image: CLEVELAND POLICE)
"We would also like to express our deepest gratitude and heartfelt thanks to all of the emergency services and to our police family who have stood beside us through the most difficult time of our lives.
"The kindness, compassion, love and unwavering support we have received as a family has meant more to us than words could ever express. Every message, visit, gesture of support and every person who has stood alongside us will never be forgotten.
"Forever loved. Forever missed. Forever our superhero. Our Matt and Dad."