Family and officers pay respects to PC Andy Duncan

HUNDREDS of mourners – including Home Secretary Theresa May – attended the funeral service of a police officer who died after being run over on duty.

PC Andrew Duncan, 47, died two days after being hit by a car while checking vehicle speeds in Sutton, south London. In wet and windy conditions, dozens of PC Duncan’s colleagues formed a guard of honour outside St Mary’s church at East Molesey, Surrey.

His wife Claire and children Adam and Emma held back tears as they followed his coffin into the church.

London Mayor Boris Johnson, Home Secretary Theresa May and Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Bernard Hogan-Howe were all in attendance at the event on 11 Otober.

PC Duncan’s boss Ch Supt Glyn Jones described him as a leader and spoke of his skill as a policeman.

He recalled a particular incident where a routine traffic stop led to PC Duncan solving a string of armed robberies.

“Andrew was exceptionally good at what he did,” Mr Jones said.

He said the public should honour PC Duncan for his sacrifice.

“Andrew did his duty, and more, for the people of London and we in our turn will stand by Andrew’s family,” he said.

Sir Bernard described the officer as a “hard-working and courageous man”.

PC Duncan’s sister Julia Williamson that told mourners about the man behind the uniform.

“We are united in our grief for Andrew and we have all cried our hearts out in sorrow,” she said, her voice quivering.

“Today we celebrate Andrew’s life.

Ms Williamson described a man who loved motorbikes, home comforts like slippers and tea and a good sleep.

She said it was his personality he would most be remembered for.

“Andrew was a lovely man,” she said. “He was modest, reliable, honest, funny and down to earth.”

Dozens of police colleagues had to watch the ceremony from a nearby marquee after the church was filled to capacity.

A 25-year-old man was last month arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury whilst dangerous driving in relation to Pc Duncan’s death.