A police officer who was murdered while responding to a reported burglary in Berkshire was a newlywed due to go on his honeymoon next week.

PC Andrew Harper had married his wife Lissie at Ardington House in Oxfordshire just four weeks before his death.

The 28-year-old's grandmother, Maureen Shrimpton, posted on Facebook: "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."

Image: PC Harper married Lissie in Ardington House. Pic: Mark Lord Photography

John Campbell, the chief constable of Thames Valley Police, said PC Harper was a "highly regarded, popular member of the team" - and the force's flags were flying at half-mast in his honour and memory.


He added: "The officer was well-known across the force so it is felt very personally and it is felt very personally by the whole police family across the UK."

After the wedding, Mrs Harper had written: "I can't believe our wedding was almost two weeks ago, we have just had a sneaky peak of some of our photos from our amazing photographer, so get ready for wedding spam.

"Thank you so much to everyone who came and who helped to make it the most perfect day, The sun was shining and the venue was incredible. We could not have asked for more."

His mother Deborah Adlam had also shared a picture with her son on Facebook - telling friends she was "so proud" of him.

Other relatives have said that the couple had a "dream wedding".

Image: Mrs Harper had said she 'could not ask for more'. Pic: Mark Lord Photography

PC Harper was also preparing to take on a huge challenge for charity - a 20-mile, 200-obstacle race - that was due to take place in May next year.

A Virgin fundraising page shows that he was hoping to raise £500 for a children's cancer charity.

He had written: "Personally I have never been much of a runner - the longest I've ever done to date being 10K however I have decided to run... to try and help save the lives of children with cancer and keep families together. Even if only one child benefits then it will be well and truly worth it.

"Wherever possible, please support me in this goal and help us fight for those who can't fight for themselves."

Image: The couple on their wedding day on 18 July. Pic: Mark Lord Photography

The Police Roll of Honour Trust, which commends officers who have died in the line of duty, has said PC Harper's death will be recorded on the list, adding: "His service and sacrifice will never be forgotten".

PC Harper is the first officer to be killed on duty since March 2017, when unarmed Pc Keith Palmer was stabbed by Khalid Masood during the Westminster Bridge terror attack.

'Shocked and saddened' by PC's death

At a news conference, Thames Valley Police said it is believed that PC Harper was dragged along the ground by a vehicle during Thursday night's incident.

Ten people have been arrested on suspicion of murder, including a 13-year-old boy.