Fundraiser for family of late police officer hits £90k in 24 hours

Newly married PC Andrew Harper was killed while on duty

Well-wishers have donated almost £90,000 in less than 24 hours to support the family and widow of PC Andrew Harper, as murder detectives continue questioning 10 suspects, including a 13-year-old boy.

The 28-year-old newlywed officer died of multiple injuries after he was dragged along by a vehicle while investigating a burglary reported in the village of Bradfield Southend, Berkshire, at around 11.30pm on Thursday.

Ten males – aged between 13 and 30 – were arrested at a nearby caravan park within an hour, Thames Valley Police said.

Police have been granted an extra 36 hours to question the suspects, Detective Superintendent Ailsa Kent told reporters on Saturday.

A fundraising page set up by Thames Valley Police Federation to support PC Harper’s widow, Lissie, and his family has raised more than £59,000 so far.

It reads: “We confront danger on a daily basis. We know there is a risk when we put on the uniform but we do so as we are proud to protect the public.

“Sadly on very rare and horrendous occasions a colleague makes the ultimate sacrifice. We will ensure that heroism is never forgotten.”

PC Harper’s father, Philip, said the family have been “devastated”, saying: “We’re in a bad place.”

PC Harper, who tied the knot with new wife Lissie just four weeks ago in what relatives have described as a “dream wedding”, was reportedly due to go on his honeymoon in a few days.

Images show the couple celebrating their wedding at Ardington House, a Georgian manor set in gardens and parkland in Oxfordshire.

On Sunday, country roads near the Four Houses Corner caravan park were closed as police scoured ditches for evidence near the site where the suspects were arrested.

Forensic officers could be seen on Saturday gathered around what appeared to be a black car inside the park near Burghfield Common.

Grieving officers have laid floral tributes at the scene at the junction of Ufton Lane and Lambdens Hill.

Some could be seen embracing, while one wiped away a tear from her cheek.

One tribute, accompanied by an image of PC Harper smiling with a friend, said: “Harps, I am truly gutted. A great cop, a great man, a great friend.

“There will always be a part of my heart missing now. RIP mate, love you.”

“Chef, Sarah and Harry.”

Pictures: PA. Grieving officers have laid floral tributes at the scene.

The 28-year-old was due to go on his honeymoon in a few days.