Family tribute to PC Nicola Hughes

PC Nicola Hughes

The family of a police officer killed in the line of duty has paid tribute to her.

PC Nicola Hughes, aged 23 and PC Fiona Bone, aged 32 were killed as they responded to a routine incident at Abbey Gardens in Hattersley shortly before 11.00am on Tuesday 18 September 2012.

Nicola lived in the Oldham area with her mother.

She leaves behind a mother, Susan, father, Bryn and younger brother Sam.

Nicola joined GMP in 2009 and had just over three years' service, all of which was served in the Tameside division.

Nicola's family has issued the following statement: "Nicola was our only daughter and a beautiful child. She was always happy with life and lived for her family.

"She had an infectious personality and sense of humour and was a very caring and loving girl. When she left the house this morning she was going to the job she loved.

"Nicola always wanted to make a difference and, in doing so, she made such a big difference to everyone she knew. She cared about everyone and especially her colleagues.

"Nicola was only 23 years old and had the whole of her life in front of her.

"We cannot express how we feel today except to say we have always been exceedingly proud of Nicola and always will be. She knew she was loved by us all and we shall all miss her dreadfully."

An online book of condolence has been opened and has attracted several thousand messages from well-wishers.

Anyone wishing to rest flowers is asked to leave them at Mottram Court House, Jackson Street, Mottram.

Assistant Chief Constable Garry Shewan, said: "Without doubt yesterday was the hardest and most upsetting day of my career.

"The impact of yesterday’s events will be felt by the force, residents of Greater Manchester and most importantly Nicola and Fiona's family, friends and colleagues for many, many years, such was the regard in which they were held.

"I hope, like me, Nicola and Fiona's family find some comfort in the many thousand messages of condolence and support that we have received.

"The reaction has been overwhelming and I want to publicly thank those who have taken time out to pay tribute to Fiona and Nicola and pass on their kind words of support, love and condolence.

"Two hard working and brave young women did not go home to their loved ones as a result of a calculated and malicious plan.

"We are determined to bring each and every person involved in this incident to justice.

"If anyone has any information about what happened yesterday morning or in the lead up to it they must do the right and just thing and contact us in absolute confidence."

Following the incident, a 29-year-old man was arrested after he walked into a police station in Tameside.

He has been arrested on suspicion of the murder of two police officers. He has also been arrested on suspicion of two counts of murder in relation to the investigations into the murders of David Short and Mark Short.

A book of condolence is available online at www.gmp.police.uk for anyone who wishes to leave messages for the two officers.