‘Forever our superhero’: Family pays tribute to PC Matthew Blades
Wife remembers the Cleveland Police officer as a “beloved husband” and “most devoted father” after he died in a crash on the A66 while on duty
Pc Matthew Blades, one of two Cleveland Police officers who died when a car going in the wrong direction hit a police car on the A66 on Saturday, was a “beloved husband” and “the most devoted father” to his two young sons, his wife said.
She said he had given his life “in the line of duty, protecting and serving others with courage, dedication and selflessness”.
Her statement, issued through Cleveland Police, 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.
“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 message finished with a red heart.