POLICE officers in Essex have been praised for supporting their colleagues in Manchester following the terror attack at the Ariana Grande concert at Manchester Arena.

Eight police officers who work across the county sacrificed planned rest days to cover night shifts in Manchester, in order to give their colleagues a well-deserved rest.

Chief Constable Stephen Kavanagh has thanked PC Kerri Trickey, PC Gemma Hicks, PC Tom Baggley, PC Tom Neilson, PC Michael Ornellas, PC Tony Short, PC Shona Allen and Sgt Steve Bowering for supporting Greater Manchester Police.

Following a long journey to Manchester last week, the officers jumped straight into action and joined Manchester police’s briefing before starting their late shift.

They worked through the night covering duties in Moss Side, Victoria Station and the town centre.

Over the past month, many more officers and members of police staff from across the country have volunteered their time and energy to Greater Manchester Police in case it is needed.

Sgt Steve Bowering, who was one of the officers who sacrificed his rest days to head to Manchester, said that he spent time reassuring residents in the city.

He said: “It is an absolute honour and privilege to assist our colleagues in Manchester and we were made to feel so welcome by members of the public whilst we were conducting foot patrols.

“Seeing the spirit still being shown as we reassured members of the public living or visiting Manchester that Essex is thinking about the victims, their families and their loved ones during this difficult time was very touching.”

Chief Constable Stephen Kavanagh said that he was proud of his officers for volunteering to use their spare time for the greater good.

He said: “I am deeply touched and humbled but absolutely not surprised that Essex Police officers and staff should volunteer their own time to give their colleagues some rest at a time of crisis.

“I know everyone in Essex will want to say ‘thank you’ for the thoughtfulness and professionalism of everyone who offered their time so brave and knackered officers in Manchester could get some rest and time with their families to process what happened.

“It’s in the nature of policing to shrug off these acts but I think they deserve wider recognition and people in Essex can be proud of this force.”

On May 22, a suicide bomber detonated a homemade bomb at the exit of the arena, killing 23 adults and children.

Officers at Greater Manchester Police, as well as forces across the country, stepped up their hours and patrols in the wake of the attack, particularly after the UK threat level was raised.