Hundreds sign online book of condolence

Hundreds of people have signed an online book of condolence for a former Rochdale police officer who died in a road crash during an emergency call.

PC Andrew Bramma, 32, was killed when his patrol van struck a tree in the village of West Tanfield, near Ripon, on Saturday.

The force said more than 500 people had already posted their condolences.

One person said PC Bramma, who lived in West Yorkshire, had paid the "ultimate sacrifice".

Temporary Chief Constable Tim Madgwick said: "The outpouring of support at this very difficult time has been overwhelming and demonstrates that people genuinely care about their police.

"We are doing everything we can to look after Andrew's family as they come to terms with their tragic loss. But I am sure that they will be comforted by the hundreds of kind messages of condolence."

In one comment, a Sgt Bradshaw said he was PC Bramma's first custody sergeant and "it was a pleasure to know you as a fine officer and a true gentleman".

Rob Hudson posted the view: "This fine officer lost his life whilst responding to help others, the ultimate sacrifice."

Pat, from a New Zealand police force, posted: "Its a loss to us all wherever we work in our Police Family, RIP"

Terry Whittaker, from Kentucky Police, said: "From the USA, I offer my deepest condolences to the family, friends and fellow officers of PC Bramma."

North Yorkshire's newly-elected Police and Crime Commissioner, Julia Mulligan, said: "It's a very, very, tragic circumstance and my heart goes out to the family of PC Bramma, his colleagues and friends."

PC Bramma, who was based in Harrogate, transferred to the North Yorkshire force four months ago from Greater Manchester Police where he had served since 2008.

He leaves behind a wife and two young sons.

PC Bramma was on his way to reports of a road accident when the crash happened. He was the only occupant of the vehicle.