Football fans and players have paid tribute to two Cleveland Police officers, PC Matthew Blades and PC Tom Clough, who died in a head-on collision on the A66 near Middlesbrough. The crash occurred early on August 22, involving their police car and another vehicle traveling the wrong way on the road. Five individuals in the other vehicle also died in the incident.
Ahead of a Championship match at Riverside Stadium, players from Middlesbrough and West Bromwich Albion observed a minute's silence in memory of the fallen officers. Images of PC Blades and PC Clough were displayed on the stadium's screen during the tribute.
Middlesbrough FC released a statement prior to the match, expressing appreciation for the "dedication and hard work of both men, and to Cleveland Police force in protecting and supporting our local community." The club acknowledged the vital role officers and staff play in ensuring residents' safety and security, often in challenging circumstances.
Hartlepool United also held a two-minute silence before their home National League game against Eastleigh on Friday evening, further honoring the officers.