Andrew Harper: Police forces around Britain pause for minute's silence to remember Pc

Stephanie Cockroft23 August 2019
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A minute's silence has been by police forces across the country this morning to remember Pc Andrew Harper who died while responding to a reported crime.

At 11am, Thames Valley Police fell silent to honour the memory of the 28-year-old officer.

Others forces across England, including Leicestershire and Kent, also paid their respects to Pc Harper, who lost his life while investigating a reported burglary near Sulhamstead on the A4 in Berkshire on August 15.

Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service, which works within Thames Valley's force area, said its staff would be "standing in solidarity" after the initial announcement was liked and shared hundreds of times.

Jed Foster, 20, has been charged with murder over the death of the newlywed officer.

The silence took place at 11am
PA

He was one of 10 men and boys aged between 13 and 30 arrested following the incident.

The remaining nine have been bailed until September 13.

Ahead of the minute's silence, Pc Harper's family paid tribute.

The minute's silence was held at Thames Valley, but other forces also took part
PA

In statements released by Thames Valley Police, his mother Debbie said: "We are devastated and bereft but, as Andrew always lived with dignity, honour and calmness, we intend to grieve in this way.

"A big part of me has gone with you. I cannot imagine our lives going forward, but we will do so with Andrew in our hearts."

The couple on their wedding day
PA

And his father Phil said: "You would always put yourself forward to look after the people around you, and would always see the good in others.

"You always made us laugh, always bringing tears of happiness to our eyes."

A fundraising page set up by the Thames Valley Police Federation, which represents rank-and-file officers, had raised more than £260,000.

Pc Andrew Harper with his family on his wedding day, (left to right) sister Aimee, father Phil, wife Lissie, stepmother Karen and brother Sean
PA

In a previous tribute, his widow, Lissie Harper, said her husband was "the kindest, loveliest, most selfless person you will ever meet.

"You were brave, funny, and always there for anyone who needed it."

PC Andrew Harper with his wife Lissie, sister-in-law Kate, brother-in-law Jake and Jake's partner Tess
PA

Mrs Harper added that her husband loved being a police officer and "always wanted to keep everyone safe, especially me".

She said: "You went the extra mile whenever you could and genuinely cared for everyone.

"The lights have dimmed on all of our lives now that you are no longer here, but it's no surprise that, even when you're gone, you're still keeping us all going, knowing that you would tell us to carry on and stay strong."

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