Police Form Guard of Honour at Young Officer’s Funeral
A Momentous Tribute to Pc Jess Turnbull
Traveloasisspot.com – Police form guard of honour as hundreds gathered at Newcastle Cathedral to honour Pc Jess Turnbull, a nineteen-year-old constable who died on duty. The young officer received a full ceremonial funeral where uniformed officers from across the country formed a guard of honour to celebrate her dedication and sacrifice.
The tragic incident unfolded on Monday evening, June 8, when Pc Turnbull responded to a two-vehicle collision on the A189 near Cramlington in Northumberland. Coroner Andrew Hetherington confirmed officers were dispatched to the scene at 11:11pm. Pc Turnbull exited her marked police vehicle and began implementing a road closure at approximately 11:34pm when she was struck by another motorist who collided with the parked police car.
Police and paramedics provided immediate treatment at the scene before transporting Pc Turnbull to the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle. Despite their efforts, she passed away on Wednesday, June 10.
A Grand Ceremony of Respect
The funeral procession on Friday showcased a magnificent display of admiration. Pc Turnbull’s coffin, draped in the union flag, was escorted to Newcastle Cathedral by horses, pipers, and motorcycle outriders. As the cortège moved through specially closed city centre streets, officers from forces across the United Kingdom formed an honour guard with flags.
Seven pipers and a lone drummer led the parade, followed by four mounted officers. Scores of uniformed police lined the square outside the cathedral as the procession approached. Inside the church, under bright sunshine, the pipers played Amazing Grace as Pc Turnbull’s coffin was carried in by more uniformed officers.
The officer’s police hat was placed reverently on top of the coffin as it entered through the main door. Dignitaries were present, including Northumbria Chief Constable Vanessa Jardine, who saluted as the coffin passed. Pc Turnbull’s parents, Janice and Andy, followed the coffin into the church, accompanied by many family members and dozens of officers.
Family Tributes and Community Support
Pc Turnbull had only joined the force in September, following in her father Andy’s footsteps. Her parents issued a heartfelt statement on Friday expressing their gratitude:
On behalf of our family, we would like to express our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported us following the devastating loss of our beautiful and brave daughter Jess.
Throughout the most difficult time of our lives, we have been overwhelmed by the kindness, compassion and support shown to us. The messages, tributes and acts of kindness have brought great comfort to our family.
Mr and Mrs Turnbull continued their tribute, noting:
The support we have received from colleagues, friends and the wider policing community has meant more to us than words can fully express. The full ceremonial honours afforded to Jess and our family were incredibly moving and provided great comfort during an unimaginably difficult time.
The family also thanked the community associated with Newcastle Blue Star Football Club, adding that Jess will always be in their hearts and thoughts. They expressed that while they miss her every day, the memories and love she brought into their lives will stay with them forever.
Official Recognition and Memorial
Chief Constable Vanessa Jardine paid tribute to Pc Turnbull’s dedication:
Our thoughts at this extremely difficult time very much continue to be with Jess’s family and loved-ones. It was a privilege to be able to support them today as we all came together to pay our tributes to Jess and celebrate her life.
Ms Jardine emphasized that Pc Turnbull made the ultimate sacrifice in serving communities and that it was an honour to recognize her commitment with a full ceremonial policing funeral.
Northumbria Police confirmed that Ms Turnbull’s name has been added to the force’s memorial at its Wallsend headquarters. The force also announced that her family is fundraising in her memory and has invited people to support the charities Care of Police Survivors or Live Life Give Life.
In connection with the incident, Northumbria Police stated that a 73-year-old Mercedes driver was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and has been bailed pending further investigation.
