PC Andrew Harper’s Widow Unveils ‘Hero’ Memorial

During a poignant ceremony in Reading, the spouse of PC Andrew Harper revealed a tribute dedicated to the officer, whose fatal encounter while on duty sparked legislative changes for emergency workers. The incident occurred in 2019 when Harper, a police constable, pursued quad bike thieves along a country lane near Sulhamstead, Berkshire. He was dragged for over a mile by a tow rope attached to a fleeing vehicle before losing his life. Three teenagers were later sentenced to prison terms ranging from 13 to 16 years for causing the deaths of emergency personnel.

A Tribute to Loss and Legacy

Lissie Harper, who had been married for just 28 days before his passing, expressed her grief during the unveiling. “The world lost a hero, but I lost the person I was meant to grow old with,” she said. She emphasized that Harper’s dedication to his role was matched by his personal significance. “He was proud to serve, but to me, he was so much more. He was my partner, my strength, and my first love. I hope those who walk these streets will pause, pay their respects, and remember he made our world safer.”

“He was funny, a great team member, and we had countless good times,” remarked Det Sgt Edward Crofts, a close friend and colleague. “He’s very much missed, and I hope people see this memorial as a tribute to the hard work of officers who risk everything for the public good.”

Thames Valley Police Chief Constable Jason Hogg and Geraldine Winner, the late filmmaker Michael’s widow and founder of the trust, attended the event. The memorial, standing 1.2 meters tall and crafted from Portland Stone with gold inscriptions, is located opposite Reading Crown Court. In 2022, the family’s advocacy led to the passage of Harper’s Law, which now requires mandatory life sentences for individuals who kill emergency workers while on duty.

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