Tributes paid to PC who was brutally murdered

THE bravery of murdered PC Keith Palmer was hailed by colleagues, friends and the many MPs whom he was charged with protecting.

"Heartbroken" former colleague, Conservative MP James Cleverly, paid tribute to the "lovely man" he had known for a quarter of a century.

He wrote of the 48-year-old father and husband: "I've known Keith for 25 years. We served together in the Royal Artillery before he became a copper. A lovely man, a friend. I'm heartbroken.

"My thoughts are with the family, friends and colleagues of PC Keith Palmer. A brave man."

Scotland Yard's top anti-terror officer Mark Rowley said of his colleague: "He was someone who left for work today expecting to return home at the end of his shift - and had every right to expect that."

Greater Manchester Police chief constable Ian Hopkins added: "#RIP PC Keith Palmer, brutally murdered today carrying out his duty helping to protect Parliament and the freedom of our Country."

The Metropolitan Police Federation, which represents officers from the force, said: "PC Keith Palmer. Our brave Met #Police colleague who today made the ultimate sacrifice #LestWeForget"

A chorus of thanks also came from politicians on all sides of the House.

Home Affairs Select Committee chairwoman Yvette Cooper, who was in the Palace of Westminster when the terrorist burst through the gates, said: "Thank you Pc Keith Palmer - to your bravery many others owe their lives and safety"

Labour MP Barry Gardiner tweeted: "Going to bed alive, safe and well thanks to Pc Keith Palmer. God bless him, his family and all those killed or injured. Terror will not win."