Hundreds of mourners lined the streets on Thursday to pay their final respects to PC Tom Clough, the former soldier who died alongside a colleague in a collision on the A66. The funeral procession made its way to Kirkleatham Walled Gardens, near Redcar, where a respectful silence fell as four police horses led the hearse along the flag-lined route.
The 38-year-old ex-soldier, who served in Afghanistan, was remembered for his extraordinary sense of humour and as someone who gave "his everything for everyone". His coffin was draped with a Union Jack flag, with his police helmet resting on top. Standard-bearers from forces across the country lowered their flags in a moving show of respect, while the funeral procession was flanked by soldiers in ceremonial dress and veterans proudly wearing their medals.
Officers and community pay tribute
Serving and retired officers stood alongside emergency service colleagues and members of the local community, who bowed their heads in a solemn mark of respect. Floral tributes, including a poppy wreath, were laid beside the coffin.
PC Clough and his colleague PC Matthew Blades, 37, tragically lost their lives in a collision on the A66 in South Bank. Their marked armed response vehicle was struck by a Volkswagen Passat travelling the wrong way along the dual carriageway during the early hours of Saturday, August 22.
Family and colleagues remember a devoted officer
Speaking before the funeral, Cleveland Police Federation chairwoman Lauren Somerville said: "The family want everyone to know that the public's support has brought them so much comfort. Tom was deeply loved by his colleagues." She described Tom, who was 'so full of fun', as a devoted partner, son and brother, as well as the "father" of his beloved sausage dog, Frank.
Ms Somerville went on to say: "Tom used to say there wouldn't be anyone at his funeral and he couldn't have been more wrong. Tom was described as giving his everything to everybody."
Public outpouring of support
After leaving the Army, PC Clough joined the Civil Nuclear Constabulary, serving at Sellafield in Cumbria, before transferring to the British Transport Police and eventually Cleveland Police, where he worked as an armed response officer. A fundraiser set up for the families of both officers raised more than £1.2m, with almost 44,000 donors contributing.
In tribute to PC Clough following his death, his family said: "He was our hero with a fantastic sense of humour. He jumped into action whenever needed, and was willing to help anyone for any reason. He proudly fought for his country to make the world a better place, and was always on public duty throughout his short life. We as a family and Tom's partner would like to express our sincere gratitude for the overwhelming support and condolences from friends, colleagues and the wider community."
Mourners share their reasons for attending
Crowds of mourners lined the streets to watch the funeral cortege pass. Bill Alexander, 73, from Redcar, said: "He wasn't only a police officer but a veteran as well, same as me. That's why I have come today." Recalling the moment he learnt of the tragedy, he added: "It was just unbelievable when you see two police officers had been killed. I'm glad to see so many people here. To give him a good send off and pay their respects."
Another Redcar resident, who wished to remain anonymous, said: "We have family who are in the police force that have served and are serving. We wanted to come here to show our respects. It's absolutely devastating. It just brings all your fears to the forefront. We've still got friends in the police and now their children are in the police." Her companion remarked: "It's so senseless. A lot of the public don't realise what the police do on a day to day basis."
Brian Dunn, 89, and his wife Iris, 87, made the journey by train, bus and on foot from their Stockton home to attend the service. Mr Dunn observed: "It is heart-warming to see so many people here." Mrs Dunn explained: "We both felt it was important to be here. The police work so hard, they do their best, and it is never appreciated, we all know that."
Geoff travelled from Newton Aycliffe to pay his respects on Thursday. The 80-year-old remarked: "It makes you feel emotional for what happened. It was horrendous. We're here for the families. They were young men who haven't come home."
The day before, hundreds also gathered in Hartlepool to say a final farewell to father-of-two PC Matthew Blades.
