THE family of an Abingdon-based police officer who was killed while on duty have paid tribute to the 'loveliest person you will ever meet'.

PC Andrew Harper died while responding to reports of a burglary on Thursday night.

According to the Daily Mail, the 28-year-old newly-wed's grandmother, Maureen Shrimpton, wrote: "Just a really horrible day. Our grandson Andrew was killed last night while doing his police work.

"So proud of him. Our love goes to his lovely wife, Mum and Dad, brother and all of his family and friends. Love from Nan and Bubba xxx".

FULL STORY: Police officer PC Andrew Harper 'murdered' near Reading responding to burglary

Uncle Dale Shrimpton added: "He's my oldest nephew. My sister's first born. Mum and dad's first grandson... and was married two weeks ago at a dream wedding.

"We are devastated. He was the loveliest person that you will ever meet. I can't begin to tell you how we feel."

Thames Valley Police had no further updates about the case this morning, though there was a road closure to allow for searches to take place.

ALSO READ: Police close road junctions as part of PC Andrew Harper murder investigation

Sally Benatar, the Leader of the South West BCU in the Metropolitan Police, said the officer, who died in Sulhamstead, had helped her three years ago. Labelling the incident 'so sad', she explained: "PC Harper was the officer in the case when my then husband was arrested for domestic violence in 2016.

"He was on @ThamesVP Response then. He was brilliant and gave me the courage to take steps to change my life. I can’t thank him enough. He was a top officer."

ALSO READ: Tributes for PC Andrew Harper 'murdered' near Reading

Witney MP Robert Courts added: "This is very sad news. A reminder of the risks run by the brave police force every time they put on a uniform to serve.

"I offer my deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of PC Andrew Harper."

  • This article previously incorrectly attributed Sally Benatar's tribute to Matthew Barber. The confusion was caused by a post on the latter's Facebook page which suggested the quotes came from him. We are happy to set the record straight in the text above.