A fundraiser supporting the families of PC Matthew Blades and PC Tom Clough, who were killed in the devastating A66 collision, has now raised more than £500,000.
The extraordinary response follows the deaths of the two Cleveland Police officers in a collision involving their marked police vehicle and a Volkswagen Passat in the early hours of Saturday, 22 August.
Both officers were serving with Cleveland Police when they lost their lives.
A campaign is now underway to push the fundraising total towards £1 million, with supporters urging people across the country to donate or share the appeal.
Posting about the milestone, campaigners said:
“£500,000 raised — let’s get to £1 MILLION.
“The fundraiser supporting the families of our fallen heroes, PC Matthew Blades and PC Tom Clough, has now passed an incredible £500,000.
“Let’s come together as the amazing community we are and help push it to £1 million.”
Those behind the appeal said every contribution would help the officers’ families, while people unable to donate were encouraged to share the fundraiser to increase its reach.
The deaths of PC Blades and PC Clough have prompted an outpouring of grief and support from the policing community and members of the public.
PC Blades’ wife has described him as her “beloved husband, best friend, and the most devoted father” to their two young sons.
She said her husband had given his life in the line of duty and described him as courageous, dedicated and selfless.
The families of those killed continue to receive support following the tragedy, while the circumstances surrounding the collision remain under investigation.
The fundraising appeal has now passed the halfway point towards its £1 million target.
