Fundraising appeal launched to support families of fallen Cleveland Police officers

26 August 2026

Branch chair Lisa Flanagan says the on-duty deaths of two officers is being felt right across policing as she encouraged members to consider supporting a financial appeal in support of their families.

More than £970,000 has been raised for the families PC Matt Blades and PC Tom Clough through a GoFundMe page launched by Cleveland Police Federation on Sunday.

PC Clough, 38, and PC Blades, 37, died when a Volkswagen Passat collided with their marked armed response car on the A66 near Middlesbrough. Five other people also died in the collision.

PC Matt Blades and PC Tom Clough

Lisa said: “Our thoughts are firmly with their loved ones, friends and colleagues at this incredibly difficult time.

“When two police officers lose their lives in the line of duty, the impact sends shockwaves right across policing and we feel it collectively.

“The response to the fundraising appeal has been incredibly powerful, and highlights the respect there is for police officers.

Grief

“At a time of such immeasurable grief, knowing that people across the country stand alongside the families can provide a small measure of comfort.

“No amount of money can change what has happened, but every contribution is a demonstration of support for the families and will make the coming months and years financially a little bit easier.

“I would encourage Derbyshire members who are able to do so to consider making a donation, or to support the appeal by sharing it with others.”

PC Blades was married with two sons. PC Clough leaves behind a partner.

Funds raised through the appeal will be split between the two families, who will be able to use the money as they wish.

Lauren Somerville, Cleveland Police Federation chair, said: “We are simply staggered by the public’s reaction to this fundraising request, and would like to thank each and every person who has kindly donated. It means so much.

"We are a small force, and the death of our colleagues has been felt deeply. We are completely numb.

Policing Family

“Matt and Tom were not just colleagues, they were friends, teammates and valued members of the policing family.

“If some good can come of this, and the officer’s families can see such a phenomenal show of support from the public and police family towards them, and their future lives can be made just that little bit easier, then that is a small something that will keep us all going in the toughest of times.”

The officers’ families have paid tribute to them.

Matt’s wife 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.

"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.

Legacy

"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.

"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."

The family of Tom 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.”

Members can support the appeal at https://www.gofundme.com/f/pc-matthew-blades-and-pc-thomas-clough