A GoFundMe page set up for the families of two Cleveland Police officers who died in a crash on the A66 has surpassed £100,000 within hours. The fundraising page, organised by the Cleveland Police Federation, has received more than 4,100 donations so far.
Officers killed in collision
PC Tom Clough, 38, and PC Matthew Blades, 37, died in the collision in the early hours of Saturday, near Middlesbrough. They lost their lives when a police car struck a Volkswagen Passat travelling on the wrong side of the road; the five occupants of the Passat also died.
Federation's appeal
In a message on the fundraising page, the federation said: "PC Matt Blades and PC Tom Clough were both dedicated and committed Police Officers who left their families and went to work to serve their community and protect the public."
"Tragedy struck these two brave Cleveland Police colleagues in the early hours of 22nd August 2026, and they paid the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. They did not return home to their families, and they leave behind heartbroken loved ones who will struggle to come to terms with the loss of their loved one."
The federation added: "Cleveland Police Federation are supporting and will continue to support the families of Matt and Tom at this unfathomable moment. We are asking for help to support the families of our two colleagues, to assist them in any way as they try to navigate this traumatic time."
"Any funds raised will be split equally between their two families to be used as they so wish. Please note this is the only official fundraising platform from Cleveland Police Federation."
Tributes to the officers
The family of PC Clough paid tribute, saying: "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."
PC Blades' 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."
Donations can be made via the GoFundMe page, with further updates available through a dedicated live blog.
