Acting National Chair Brian Booth said: "It was an honour to join Matt’s family, friends and colleagues today as we paid our respects to PC Matthew Blades and remembered a life taken far too soon.

"The strength, courage and dignity shown by those closest to Matt throughout this unimaginably difficult time has been truly humbling. Our thoughts remain firmly with his wife, children, family and loved ones as they continue to come to terms with their devastating loss.

"Matt was a devoted family man and a valued colleague. The police family stands united in remembering him, and while today marks our final farewell, we will continue to stand alongside and support his loved ones in the days, months and years ahead."