Carmel College in Darlington has paid tribute to former English teacher PC Matthew Blades, who was killed alongside PC Tom Clough when their armed response vehicle was hit by a VW Passat travelling the wrong way down the A66 in South Bank. All five occupants of the Passat also died in the collision in the early hours of Saturday morning, August 22.
School Remembers 'Intelligent, Kind and Approachable' Teacher
Posting on Facebook, the school remembered PC Blades as a "much-loved and highly valued member of staff" who left teaching to begin a new vocation of service as a police officer. The statement said: "Many within our community will remember Matty as an intelligent, kind and approachable teacher, a valued colleague and someone who gave generously of himself to the young people in his care."
The school added: "Our thoughts and prayers are especially with Matthew’s wife, his two sons, his wider family, friends and colleagues, and with all those who knew and loved him. We pray too for PC Tom Clough, his loved ones, and all those affected by the wider tragedy and loss of life."
Family and Football Club Pay Tribute
The 37-year-old dad-of-two, described by his wife as the "most devoted father", had recently joined as a coach for the under-sevens Seahawks team at Seaton Carew FC. The club said: "He was looking forward to being part of the team and, most importantly, to coaching his own son, who is going to be playing for the Seahawks this season."
On Sunday, PC Blades' wife said in a statement that "no words will ever feel like the right words to honour our Matt". She added: "He gave his life in the line of duty, protecting and serving others with courage, dedication and selflessness."
Fundraising and Second Officer Remembered
More than half a million pounds has been raised via a Go Fund Me page set up by the Cleveland Police Federation to support the grieving families of the two officers. Former soldier PC Clough, 38, was described by his family as "our hero" who was "always on public duty".
