Cleveland Police Officer PC Tom Clough Laid to Rest in Redcar After A66 Tragedy PC Tom Clough, a 38‑year‑old former soldier and police officer, died in the A66 head‑on crash that also claimed the life of PC Matthew Blades. He is given full police honours at a funeral in Redcar, with tributes from colleagues, the police federation and family highlighting his dedication and humour. On a somber morning, the communities of Redcar and Middlesbrough were united in mourning for two brave officers whose lives were cut short in the same tragic collision on the A66. Police Constable Tom Clough, 38, of Cleveland Police, and his colleague PC Matthew Blades, both responded to a call in the early hours when their armed response vehicle was struck head‑on by a Volkswagen Passat loaded with youths. The crash occurred near Middlesbrough's South Bank at 3.39 a.m. on Saturday, 22 August, taking the lives of Clough, Blades, and five members of the driving party - aged between 17 and 23.In the days that followed, the police force and local residents rallied to honour the fallen officers, set up memorials, and provide support to their families. PC Clough, whose service record spanned several law‑enforcement and military agencies, had a broad and distinguished career. He began his policing career with the Cleveland Police, then transferred to the Civil Nuclear Police before serving in the British Transport Police.After a tenure in the British Army - notably with the 11 Troop, Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Search Regiment based at Dreghorn Barracks in Edinburgh - he returned to civilian policing, where he was known for his dedication, calm under pressure and a fierce sense of duty. Colleagues remember him as a "fun‑loving, cheeky" officer who could lift the spirits of anyone in a grave situation.His family described him as a man who "devoted his life to public service to make the world a better place." The funeral arrangements for PC Clough were set with the same dignity and ceremony used for PC Blades, who was laid to rest in Hartlepool the day before. The ceremony for Clough's body, to be held in Redcar, was planned to include full police honours. He was to be carried across Markham Street by officers who would wear the identity patches that bore his service number, PC 3234 CLOUGH.The funeral procession would reflect the gratitude of a nation for a man whose life had been a testament to service and compassion. During the mourning period, a large outpouring of community support flooded into the families of both officers. The Senior Officer in Charge at Sellafield Operational Policing Unit, Chief Superintendent Richard Clark, paid a moving tribute to Clough, noting not only his professionalism but also the profound warmth and jovial humour that he brought to every task.Clark reflected on Clough's extensive experience with the Dynamic Search and Interdiction Team and his role as a Police Medic, highlighting how his personality "l added lightness and unity." Meanwhile, Chair of the Cleveland Police Federation, Lauren Somerville, praised the officers' self‑less approach and the support that the public had given to Clough's family. She emphasized how the community's compassion helped keep the families anchored during a period that was "very dark." From a broader perspective, the tragedy underscored the risks that police officers face daily. Both PC Clough and PC Blades were on duty in a high‑risk response vehicle, and the outcome of the collision - a fatal crash involving youthful drifters - has prompted renewed calls for stricter enforcement of speed limits and road safety regulations.The Police Federation and community organisations have begun advocating for enhanced driver education, particularly for young people, and for public awareness about the consequences of dangerous driving. While the accident took an enormous toll, the memories of these officers endure through the stories told by those who served with them.The impact of their service, their sense of humour, and their unyielding devotion to the public good are being recorded in the lives of those who will remember them for years to come. The community's collective grief is matched by an enduring gratitude that will keep these officers' legacies alive. PC Clough's family released a statement expressing profound gratitude for the overwhelming support: "He was our hero with a fantastic sense of humour who jumped into action whenever needed.He proudly fought for his country to make the world a better place and was always on public duty throughout his short life." They also highlighted his compassion as a father-both to his loved ones and, affectionately, to a sausage‑dog named Frank. In the weeks that follow, the memorials will be maintained, and the discussions about road safety intensified. The community reminds us that the loss of PC Clough, PC Blades, and the young drivers involved will never be forgotten, but through remembrance and advocacy, a future may be forged that ensures such tragedies are less likely to repeat themselves.The nephew, brother, and fellow officers all gathered during the funeral services to honour their colleague's memory. The families, colleagues, and local residents all woke up to the same reality: a beloved officer had departed too early, leaving a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations of police officers and citizens alike.In the final analysis, the loss of PC Clough and PC Blades is a stark reminder of the risks inherent in policing and the profound value of community solidarity. Their commitment to protecting the public should be remembered not only in the wake of tragedy but also in continued efforts to promote safer roads and stronger support for those who serve.