North Yorkshire Police Federation has expressed its support for everyone affected by the tragic collision in Cleveland this morning, which claimed the lives of seven people, including two police officers.

The crash took place on the A66 in South Bank, near Middlesbrough, at around 3.39am.

Officers from North Yorkshire Police attended the scene to support colleagues and help respond to the devastating incident.

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.”

North Yorkshire Police Federation also paid tribute to everyone involved in the emergency response and offered continued support to those affected.

Tony ended: “If you have been affected by this incident, please speak to your local Federation representative. No one should feel they have to deal with the impact of an incident like this alone.”