Family tribute for Cleveland Police officer Tom Clough

PC Tom Clough died after a marked Cleveland Police vehicle was involved in a crash with a Volkswagen Passat on the A66 at South Bank at 3.39am on Saturday, August 22.

His family said: “He was our hero with a fantastic sense of humour. Jumped into action whenever needed, and willing to help anyone for any reason.

“Proudly fought for his country to make the world a better place. Always on public duty throughout his short life.

“We as a family and Tom’s partner would like to express our sincere gratitude for the overwhelming support and condolences from friends, colleagues and the wider community.”

Pc Clough and Pc Matthew Blades were both pronounced dead at the scene alongside the five occupants of the Volkswagen Passat.

Scene of multiple fatality RTC on the A66 at in South Bank, Middlesbrough. 23.8.2026 Photograph: Stuart Boulton/The Notrhern Echo (Image: Stuart Boulton)

Cleveland Police said the Passat had been travelling in the wrong direction when it collided with the police vehicle, which was travelling correctly along the carriageway.

Flowers, balloons and messages have since been left near the scene as people across Teesside pay tribute to those who died.

Tributes have also poured in for the two officers, who were described by Cleveland Police Chief Constable Victoria Fuller as “brave officers”.

She said: “These were brave officers protecting our communities and serving our residents who didn’t return home to their families at the end of their shift.”

Scene of multiple fatality RTC on the A66 at in South Bank, Middlesbrough. 23.8.2026 Photograph: Stuart Boulton/The Notrhern Echo (Image: Stuart Boulton)

Prime Minister Andy Burnham said he was “devastated” to hear about the crash, while Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said her thoughts were with all those affected.

Anna Turley, MP for Redcar, said: “They went to work to keep people safe and they should have come home to their families.

“Their loss will be felt deeply by their loved ones, fellow officers and right across the communities they served.”