Branch offers condolences following the deaths of Cleveland officers

25 August 2026

Nottinghamshire Police Federation stands alongside the families, friends and colleagues of Cleveland Police officers PC Matt Blades and PC Tom Clough following their tragic deaths while on duty over the weekend.

In the early hours of Saturday (22 August), PC Matt Blades and PC Tom Clough sadly lost their lives in a collision on the A66 near South Bank, Middlesbrough.

The loss of two officers in such devastating circumstances has sent shockwaves through the policing family. Cleveland Police Federation described the incident as 'unfathomable and unthinkable' and has pledged to do everything possible to honour the memory of both officers.

Cleveland branch secretary, Carl Baker, said: "PC Matt Blades and PC Tom Clough were both dedicated and committed Cleveland Police officers who left their families and went to work to serve their community and protect the public.

PC Matt Blades and PC Tom Clough

"Lauren (branch chair) and I have been working around the clock since we received the call nobody ever wants to receive, and we will continue to do so to ensure our fallen colleagues and their families receive all the support they need.

"We have had a number of requests about how people can donate or support their families. To help facilitate this and ensure support reaches the right place, we have taken the decision to launch a GoFundMe page. 

Carl confirmed that all funds raised will be divided equally between the families of PC Matt Blades and PC Tom Clough, who were aged 37 and 38 respectively.

Nottinghamshire Police Federation Vice Chair Jasmine Chaplain has also paid tribute to the officers and expressed support for the fundraising initiative. 

Tragedy

Jasmine said: "On behalf of Nottinghamshire Police Federation, I would like to extend our deepest condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of PC Matt Blades and PC Tom Clough. The news of their deaths is truly heartbreaking, and our thoughts are with everyone affected by this tragedy.

"Incidents like this are felt far beyond one force area. Across the policing family, officers and staff will be coming to terms with what has happened, reflecting on the risks our colleagues face every day and grieving alongside those closest to PC Matt Blades and PC Tom Clough.

"To any of our members who are finding this particularly difficult, please remember that you do not have to cope with this alone. Your Federation is here to support you. No one should have to process something like this alone, so please reach out to us if you need any kind of support.

"The fundraiser established by Cleveland Police Federation is way for people to show their support during such a difficult time.

Kindness

"It has already prompted an incredible outpouring of generosity, kindness and heartfelt tributes from colleagues and members of the public alike.

"Whether you choose to donate, leave a message of support or simply share the page with others, every gesture will mean something to the families who are facing an unimaginable loss.

"For their families, no fundraiser can take away the pain of such a devastating loss, but it can help to make life that little bit easier as they continue to grieve and adjust to a world without their loved ones.”

You can visit the GoFundMe page for PC Matt Blades and PC Tom Clough here. This is the only official fundraising platform from Cleveland Police Federation, with donations protected and guaranteed to go directly to the families of the fallen officers.

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