PC Matthew Blades and PC Tom Clough lost their lives while carrying out the job they had chosen to do: protecting the public and putting themselves in harm’s way for others.

Behind the uniforms were two people with families, friends and colleagues who expected them to return home at the end of their shift.

We now know a little more about the man Matthew was away from policing.

He was a husband and a dad to two boys. He had recently joined Seaton Carew FC as a coach and was preparing for his first season with their new U7 Seahawks team, where he was looking forward to something incredibly special: coaching his own young son.

Nothing can take away the pain their families are experiencing, but hopefully we can come together and show them just how much support exists for them within policing and beyond.

All funds raised will be for the benefit of the families of PC Matthew Blades and PC Tom Clough. We will liaise with Cleveland Police to ensure the funds raised are distributed appropriately and in accordance with the wishes of those affected.

Please donate what you can.