PC Andrew Harper given posthumous police honour

PC Andrew Harper's widow Lissie – whom he had been married for just four weeks when he died – received a standing ovation as she took to the stage to receive the award on her husband's behalf.

The honour was given by PC Harper's colleagues at the Annual Police Federation Roads Policing Awards in Kenilworth, Warwickshire yesterday.

The bravery of the Thames Valley Police officer was recognised by the Police Federation of England and Wales (PFEW) with a National Chair’s Certificate for representing 'the very best of roads policing and policing in general'.

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Mrs Harper said: "Andrew wanted to be a policeman since he was a little boy, fuelled with enthusiasm and a contagious love for adventure that never left him when he grew into adulthood.

"I think if you were to have asked Andrew what the most important thing about being a police officer was, he would say protecting the innocent from harm and being the barrier of strength and accountability against the guilty… even if he had to stay on late and buy another kebab from the notorious kebab van that he loved to visit.

"He gained so much from every shift and every new team he joined - I don’t think he felt totally contented until he joined roads policing.

"He began to thrive more than ever, whether he drove alone or had some company, he soon made a name for himself as one of the most productive and motivated officers in Thames Valley Police.

PC Andrew Harper

"I want to thank you for this heartwarming show of appreciation to Andrew for all that he gave.

"If one thing is for certain it is the unbreakable bond between officers - a mutual respect and unspoken pact to stand strong together and to take care of the families of the fallen heroes. 

"I for one have been touched and overwhelmed with the immense support I have been given from the police family and for that I am eternally grateful."

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PFEW chair John Apter said: "Every day police officers run towards the unknown, putting themselves in harm’s way and risking their own safety to protect others. 

"When one of us falls, their loss is felt by all of us in the police family.

"But we remember with pride, their courage, selflessness and dedication to duty, these are the qualities we associate with Andrew.

"A certificate may seem a small thing, but it is genuinely meant with love and compassion.

"He is a hero who will never be forgotten."

Earlier this month, teenager Henry Long pleaded guilty to manslaughter.

PC Harper died from multiple injuries after being dragged along by a car. 

He had been responding to a call for a burglary in the village of Sulhamstead.