Ceremonial funeral service held for police officer who died in line of duty in Northumberland

The life of PC Jess Turnbull was celebrated on Friday as her loved-ones and her policing family came together in a moving service.

Jess was responding to a collision on the A189 Spine Road near Cramlington last month and while at the scene was struck by a car unconnected to the original incident and sadly died in hospital.

The funeral featured a procession led by the Force’s Ceremonial Unit and included a band of pipes, alongside officers from the Mounted and Roads Policing Units.

Forces from across the country were also represented, with standard bearers lining the route.

A number of dignitaries, including the Lord Lieutenants of both Tyne and Wear and Northumberland, were also in attendance to pay their respects. 

The ceremony at the cathedral, was followed by a private service at West Road Crematorium. 

Jess, who was 19, joined the police last September, following in her dad’s footsteps after he too served with Northumbria. 

Her parents Janice and Andy Turnbull said: “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.

“We would like to thank the City of Newcastle, the Dean and everyone at Newcastle Cathedral for helping us celebrate Jess's life so thoughtfully and with such care.

“We are especially grateful to our police family. 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.

“To see the respect shown, and to feel the strength and support of the police family around us, is something we will never forget.

“We will always be grateful for the kindness, professionalism and friendship that has been shown to us throughout.

“Football was one of Jess's greatest passions, so we would also like to thank our Blue Star family for the love and support they have given us. Knowing how much Jess enjoyed being part of that community, and seeing the care shown to our family, has been a great source of comfort.

“We would also like to thank all of our family and friends for standing beside us, offering their support, and helping us through these darkest of days.

“The outpouring of love for Jess has been truly humbling and is a testament to the impact she had on so many lives. While our hearts are broken, we take comfort in knowing how much she was loved.

“Jess will always be in our hearts and thoughts. We miss her every day, but the memories we shared and the love she brought into our lives will stay with us forever.

“Thank you to everyone who has supported our family and helped us through this unimaginable loss.”

Chief Constable Vanessa Jardine led the tributes on behalf of Northumbria Police. 

“Our thoughts at this extremely difficult time very much continue to be with Jess’s family and loved-ones,” she said.  

“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. 

“Jess made the ultimate sacrifice in serving our communities and it was an honour to be able to recognise her commitment and dedication to public service with a full ceremonial policing funeral. 

“I would like to thank everyone who helped to ensure today’s ceremony could go ahead. 

“I also want to thank the fantastic communities of the North East for all of your support since Jess died.  

“We have been humbled by your messages and the flowers which have been left at stations in memory of Jess. Please know your support is deeply appreciated.” 

Chief Constable Jardine added: “Each and every day, police officers across the country face danger to protect us all.  

“Today, therefore it also seems incredibly poignant to recognise and remember their service and dedication. 

“Jess and the sacrifice she made will never be forgotten.” 

Jess’s name has been added to Northumbria Police’s memorial at the Wallsend headquarters in a lasting tribute. 

The family are also fundraising in memory of Jess. Anyone who wishes to make a donation is invited to support one of the following charities Care of Police Survivors or Live Life Give Life.

A 73-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and released on bail while investigations continue.