Original posting 24 August 2026:
"It is with deep sadness that we heard of the tragic death of Cleveland officers Tom Clough and Matthew Blades after being involved in a head on collision on the A66 near Middlesborough whilst on night duty patrol in the early hours of Saturday morning.
There will be much speculation about the manner of this incident, but our thoughts and prayers must be with the families and colleagues of Tom and Matthew. Like most officers, they left home expecting to return safely after their tour of duty ends. Tragically this didn't happen due to the criminal behaviour of five young men, hell bent on having no regard for the safety of themselves or any other road users.
On behalf of London Branch our condolences must go to our colleagues in Cleveland and the Blades and Clough families."
Eric Smith
London Branch Chair
7 September update:
Cleveland Police have just released funeral details for PC Blades and PC Clough who were killed on duty a couple of weeks ago.
1. PC Matthew Blades – 10:30hrs Wednesday 9th September at St Josephs RC Church, St Pauls Road, Hartlepool. Space inside the Church is limited. All welcome to attend.
2. PC Tom Clough – 12:15hrs Thursday 10th September 2026 at Kirkleatham Walled Gardens, Plantation Road, Redcar TS10 4AS . All welcome to attend.
A Go Fund Me appeal has been launched by Cleveland Police Federation which you can access here.
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