A charity fundraiser has been set up for former military man turned police officer Matt Lannie who died on duty in a serious crash.
Whilst responding to a call for assistance from his colleagues chasing a suspect vehicle, his marked police motorcycle was involved in a collision with a car in Ecclesfield.
Matt’s colleagues, on the Operational Support Unit, have launched a JustGiving page to raise money for ‘Help For Heroes’ in his memory – the fundraiser has amassed more than £3,000 so far.
Before joining South Yorkshire Police, Matt served in the army where spent his career in three branches: Duke of Wellington’s Regiment (Infantry), Staff and Personnel Support, and finally the Royal Military Police.
The charity fundraiser was set up by friend and colleagues Craig Sharratt, who said: “Matt was one of the warmest, nicest, funniest, cheeky chaps you could ever wish to meet.
“No matter what room he entered he would bring laughter, sunshine and smiles, and he would do anything for absolutely anyone, he was one that you could rely on in any situation.
“We are wanting to raise as much money as we can for the charity Matt held close to his heart, this charity being Help for Heroes. Matt never ever forgot or even lost his love for the military and all who served or are still serving.”
- You can donate to the Help for Heroes fundraiser created in Matt’s memory here.
During a recent coronavirus address to the nation, the Home Secretary paid tribute to the dedicated officer.
Pritti Petel said: “I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to the South Yorkshire police motorcyclist who was tragically killed as he responded to an emergency incident earlier this week.
My thoughts and prayers are with his family friends and colleagues at this truly heartbreaking time.
“His death shows how our exceptional police put their own lives at risk every day to protect the people that they serve.
“Coronavirus merely highlights the extent of their courage their compassion and their commitment. Police officers and staff need to put themselves at risk to make sure people follow the life saving instruction to stay at home.”
You can donate to the Help for Heroes fundraiser created in Matt’s memory here.
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