Family of Sheffield police officer who died in crash thank school children for touching tribute

The family of PC Matt Lannie, who died during a crash on Nether Lane, Ecclesfield on April 21, have thanked primary school students for creating a tribute to key workers in his memory.

PC Lannie’s sister, Marie Mead and mother, Cheryl Raybould have spoken out about their gratitude for the collage Year 4 pupils from St Thomas More in Grenoside made – which included a picture of the police officer.

The school children each drew pictures of essential workers such as lorry drivers and NHS staff to thank them for their hard work during the coronavirus lockdown.

PC Lannie, aged 40, was killed when his marked police motorcycle was involved in a crash with a Toyota Avensis, which was driven by a 64-year-old man.

The police officer was on-duty and responding to reports of a silver BMW failing to stop for officers at the time of the collision.

PC Lannie’s nephew, Cole, who studies at St Thomas More, drew a picture of the police force to pay his respects.

"I thought it was absolutely amazing what they did and it's had some really nice comments”, Marie said.

"It's been really difficult, but the police have been helpful and they have given us so much support.

"It provides a lot of comfort to know there is so much support for people putting their lives on the line.

“Matt put his life on the line and it’s overwhelming to be honest.

“The amount of people that Matt's death has touched.”

The collage was intended to be a surprise and PC Lannie’s sister was excited to show him the picture Cole had drawn, before he died.

Marie explained how proud she is of her brother - who always took part in Sheffield Children’s Hospital’s Annual Easter Egg Run - for thinking of others.

"Matt was cheeky, funny, always on the banter side, always laughing – he was just amazing and always there for anybody.

"If he was to help somebody and make them smile then that made him happy.”