Never give in to fear say officer’s devastated family
THE family of an off-duty policewoman killed in the Manchester atrocity yesterday insisted that Britons should never “be frightened by fear tactics”.
Detective Constable Elaine McIver, 43, had attended the concert with her partner Paul and his two children.
Her family said in a statement: “We will all miss her beyond belief, we absolutely know she will live in our hearts forever.”
They also pleaded for Britons to “carry on regardless” and never cower in the face of evil terrorists.
“Elaine was a much-loved daughter, sister, auntie, friend and colleague, the best we could ever have wished for.
“She was everyone’s friend, thoughtful beyond belief, with an effervescent and outgoing personality.
“Despite what has happened, she would want us to carry on regardless and not be frightened by fear tactics. Instead she regularly urged us all to rise up against it.”
Her partner is still seriously ill while the children escaped with minor injuries. They are being cared by relatives.
The statement added: “She would have been devastated by the injuries sustained by her partner Paul, and we all wish him a speedy recovery.
“Elaine just loved life and had a major love of music.”
Niece Nicol posted on Facebook: “Forever with me and in my heart, so proud to call you my Aunty Lainey.”
Another niece Sami McIver wrote: “My heart is broken but I’m so blessed to be your niece. Aunty Lainey, I will love you forever xxxxxx.”
DC McIver is the second officer to be killed by terrorism in two months after PC Keith Palmer was murdered during the Westminster attack.
PC Palmer, 48, was guarding the Houses of Parliament when he was stabbed by Khalid Masood.
DC McIver worked for Cheshire Police where Chief Constable Simon Byrne praised her and insisted: “We will not let evil win.”
He described her as “a big-hearted, bubbly and positive person.”
He added: “We are supporting her family at this very difficult time and friends from the constabulary.
“As we come to terms with the loss of an officer in such tragic and heartrending circumstances.”
Cheshire Police and Crime Commissioner David Keane said: “It is at moments like this that we must remain unified and strong.
“Our thoughts are with Elaine’s family, friends and colleagues. We will be doing everything we can to support Elaine’s family and our officers and staff.”
Neighbours in Frodsham, Cheshire, described her as a cheerful person who loved her garden.
Colin Randall, 60, said: “To realise my neighbour was one of the victims is heart-breaking.” His brother Keith, 54, added: “She always had time for a chat and a wave.”
Linda Gibbons, 37, another neighbour said: “She would always come across for a talk.”
DC McIver’s family has launched a JustGiving page in her memory in aid of cancer research.