A police officer and a 61-year-old woman have died after a head-on crash in Sheffield on Christmas Day.

South Yorkshire Police said a BMW patrol car collided with a Citroen C3 travelling in the opposite direction on the A57 at around 8.15pm on Monday evening.

The force confirmed the 46-year-old officer driving the police car was pronounced dead at the scene, while a 61-year-old female passenger of the Citroen died in hospital shortly after.

The Citroen driver, a 63-year-old man, remains in hospital in what police described as a “serious condition”.

South Yorkshire Police is yet to name the officer who has died, but said he was a "universally liked" figure who had served on the force for more than a decade.

Assistant Chief Constable David Hartley said: “On behalf of the force I’d like to offer my sincere condolences to all of those left bereaved by this terrible tragedy, our thoughts, love and support are extended to all those affected.

"We are doing everything we can to support them through this difficult time. I ask that their privacy is respected at this sad time.”

“We have lost a friend and a colleague from our police family in this incident.

“The officer has been with us for 12 years and was a passionate, professional and universally liked officer. His colleagues, and everyone across the force, are devastated by what has happened.

"Our thoughts are with both families who have lost loved ones during this incredibly difficult time“