Paying Tribute to PC Matthew Blades

It was an honour to attend the funeral of PC Matthew Blades today and pay my respects and gratitude on behalf of the people of Redcar & Cleveland.

It was such a powerful tribute to a wonderful man - clearly so loved and admired by colleagues and friends in Cleveland Police and beyond.

But most of all a devoted husband and Dad who was rightly a hero to his sons.

My thoughts remain with everyone who loved Matthew as we remember his life and honour his service.

As the Very Reverend Canon Paul Douthwaite said at the service - he was the light that shine into the darkness.

We owe it to him to reflect Matthew’s light onwards.

Rest in peace, Matthew.