Tributes paid to GMP’s Salford riots hero

Tributes have been paid to a commended Greater Manchester Police (GMP) officer who died while off duty in a road traffic collision in Flixton last Thursday (January 5).

PC Gerry Chambers, 41, came off his Honda motorbike on Flixton Road shortly before 12.50am, and was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics.

PC Chambers, who joined GMP in September 2003, was awarded a Chief Constable’s high commendation in 2011 following his courageous efforts during the Salford riots.

His wife, Jackie, described PC Chambers as her “best mate” and said she is trying to focus on how their young children, two-year old Hugo and one-year-old Charlotte, will cope with the loss.

“I miss him so much,” she said. “I feel numb and am just about functioning. Gerry was an honourable character with a passion for justice. He will be a great loss to the TAU (Tactical Aid Unit) and the Greater Manchester Police.”

PC Chambers was in the TAU and served in the Specialist Operations Branch, based at Claytonbrook.

Chief Superintendent Neil Wain, commander of the Specialist Operations Branch, said: “Gerry is described by his friends and colleagues as ‘one of the good guys’ who was committed to his role in the TAU. He displayed courage, bravery and a disregard for his own personal safety in protecting his colleagues and the people of Greater Manchester.

“Gerry was a committed family man who adored his wife and children. He was always at his happiest when talking about Jacqueline and the kids.”

He was a keen cyclist, riding to work every day, taking part in cycling time trials and representing GMP racing.

“Everybody who came into contact with Gerry instantly liked him,” added Chief Superintendent Wain.

“He was respected by everyone and always had a smile on his face and a friendly word.”

A public appeal has been made for witnesses to the incident.