South Yorkshire Police yesterday confirmed the death of serving police officer PC Matt Lannie, who sadly died on duty.

Dr Alan Billings, Police and Crime Commissioner for South Yorkshire has issued the following statement:

“It was with great sadness that I heard of the death in the line of duty of PC Matt Lannie, a police motor cyclist,” said Dr Billings

“I have expressed my condolences to his family through the Family Liaison Officers and thanked them for the valuable but difficult work they do at these moments.

“PC Lannie was clearly a valued friend and colleague who will be greatly missed. He was part of a close-knit team, some of whom I have met on occasions, and I know how keenly they will feel this loss.

Dr Billings added: “It is a sad reminder of the inherent risks some of our officers run every day as they seek to keep us safe and we should never forget that or take them and the work they do on behalf of us all for granted.”