A fundraising page set up by PC Andrew Harper before his death has received more than £20,000 in donations.
Harper was killed while responding to a suspected burglary in Berkshire on Thursday. He was 28 years old and aiming to run a 20-mile obstacle course in aid of Children with Cancer UK. He had set himself a £500 target.
On his Virgin Money Giving page, he had said: “Nobody deserves to experience the devastating impacts of cancer, but especially not children.
“Thankfully I've never had to experience the effects of child cancer but there are many who are not so lucky.
“Personally I have never been much of a runner - the longest I've ever done to date being 10k, however I have decided to run this 20-mile, 200-obstacle course route to try and help save the lives of children with cancer and keep families together. Even if only one child benefits then it will be well and truly worth it.
“Wherever possible, please support me in this goal and help us fight for those who can't fight for themselves. Thank you.”
One anonymous donor said: “A true example of 'service before self'. Thank you for trying to make the world a better place. Your legacy will live on.”
Another added: “Our hearts go out to PC Harper's family, from the parents of a serving police officer.”
Ian Davies posted: “I am a retired police officer after 30 years and horrified by the death of this young officer really just starting out, RIP and god bless your wife and family.”
Children with Cancer UK: 'A cause that was evidently close to his heart'
A spokesperson for the charity said: “Children with Cancer UK was deeply saddened to hear about the death of Police Constable Andrew Harper on Thursday 15 August. First and foremost, our thoughts and sincere condolences are with the family, friends and colleagues of Andrew Harper during this incredibly difficult time.
“Andrew was a supporter of Children with Cancer UK, and was raising funds by taking part in a 20-mile obstacle race in 2020. Following the tragic events of last week, many have donated to his Virgin Money Giving page where he wrote: 'Nobody deserves to experience the devastating impacts of cancer, but especially not children…even if only one child benefits then it will be well and truly worth it.'
“The incredibly kind support from members of the general public in PC Harper’s memory, for a cause that was evidently close to his heart, is deeply touching and will help save young lives.
“When appropriate, we are planning to reach out to Andrew’s family to ask where they would like to allocate these funds. We would like to honour his legacy by recording all generous donations received in his name, with his family’s agreement.”
Thames Valley Police Federation: 'We will ensure that heroism is never forgotten'
These donations come after more than £215,000 was raised for the family of the policeman by Thames Valley Police Federation.
In a statement they said: “Police officers all over Thames Valley and the rest of the UK go to work each and every day to do their duty. We are courageous, caring and compassionate. We confront danger on a daily basis. We know there is a risk when we put on the uniform but we do so as we are proud to protect the public.
“Sadly on very rare and horrendous occasions a colleague makes the ultimate sacrifice. We will ensure that heroism is never forgotten. All our thoughts remain with Andrew’s wife, family, friends and close colleagues.”
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