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PC Andrew Harper died a "shocking" death in which his uniform was ripped off as he was dragged for a mile, a court heard.

The newly married officer, 28, became entangled in a loading tow strap while trying to stop a group stealing a quad bike on August 15 last year, the jury was told.

As the drove off in their Seat Toledo, PC Harper became tangled around the legs and dragged along the lane, jurors heard.

Prosecutor Brian Altman, QC, said: "With his ankles caught in a strap that was trailing behind a car being driven at speed along a country lane, he was dragged for over a mile along the road surface."

(Image: central news)

The newly-wed officer's widow Lissie Harper sat in the well of the court as the jury was told how the driver tried to dislodge her husband and he was "swung from side to side like a pendulum" as his uniform was "ripped from his body".

Mr Altman said. added: "When, at last, he became disentangled, he was left with the most awful injuries, from which he died there on the road, surrounded by colleagues who tried in vain to save him.

(Image: central news) (Image: central news)

"His injuries were simply not survivable, and he could not be saved.

"He died totally naked apart from his socks and boots, and some shredded remnants of the trousers he was wearing.

"This was a completely senseless killing of a young police officer in the line of duty."

(Image: PA)

Driver Henry Long, 18, has admitted manslaughter but denies murder.

The two 17-year-old boys have both admitted taking the vehicle, but each deny murder.

Known to his colleagues as 'Harps' PC Harper was due to finish his shift at 7pm with colleague PC Andrew Shaw.

But on the way back to base they decided to do one final job, a choice which cost PC Harper his life.

Long, of Mortimer, Reading, admits manslaughter and conspiracy to steal but denies murder.

The 17-year-olds admit conspiracy to steal but deny murder.

The trial continues.