The wife of a police officer who died in the crash on the A66 near Middlesbrough has said "our lives will never be the same". PC Matthew Blades, 37, was one of two Cleveland Police officers killed in the collision in the early hours of Saturday.
Five other people, who were inside a Volkswagen Passat, which was driving on the wrong side of the road, also died when it collided with the police car. Earlier today, the family of PC Tom Clough, 38, shared a loving tribute, and now the partner of the other late officer has spoken.
Wife's tribute to 'devoted father'
His heartbroken wife 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."
'Our lives will never be the same'
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.
Gratitude and lasting memory
"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."
You can donate to the GoFundMe page here, and for information and the latest updates as the reaction from the upsetting incident continues, you can visit our dedicated live blog here.
