Football fans and players have paid tribute to two Cleveland Police officers, PC Matthew Blades and PC Tom Clough, who were killed in a head-on collision on the A66 near Middlesbrough. The incident, which also resulted in the deaths of five people in the other vehicle, occurred early on 22 August.
Middlesbrough and West Bromwich Albion players observed a minute's silence at the Riverside Stadium before their Championship match, with pictures of the officers displayed. Hartlepool United also held a two-minute silence on Friday evening before their home National League game against Eastleigh.
Middlesbrough FC released a statement expressing appreciation for the officers' dedication and hard work, and for Cleveland Police's role in protecting the local community. The club highlighted the vital role of officers and staff in keeping residents safe.
Earlier this week, 17 people were arrested in connection with the crash investigation, bringing the total number of arrests to 24. The occupants of the other vehicle, a Passat, who also died were Michael Robert Cahill, Jacob Matusiak, Makai Saddington, Theo Rae, and Cole Robert Worthy.
Middlesbrough mayor Chris Cooke stated on Radio 4's Today programme that Cleveland Police is performing "extremely well" despite a lack of funding. He noted the force has experienced over a 10% reduction in full-time equivalent police officers, while other areas have seen increases of over 20%.