NORTH Yorkshire’s police chief has paid tribute to a ‘committed, enthusiastic’ officer who died in a crash near Ripon while responding to an emergency call.

Married father-of-two Andrew Bramma was killed when his patrol van struck a tree in West Tanfield at about 7pm on Saturday.

The Harrogate Safer Neighbourhood Team member had been reacting to reports of a road accident when the crash happened.

Temporary Chief Constable Tim Madgwick said today it was a ‘truly sad day’ for the force.

"Andrew was a committed, enthusiastic officer who wanted to serve the public and the community,” he said.

"He extolled the virtues of what we are looking for in North Yorkshire Police, he cared about the community, he wanted to do his job and protect people and he did it for the very best reasons.

"He was a man of integrity and he was popular with his colleagues and as Chief Constable I cannot ask for more of a young officer."

He said his thoughts were with the officer’s family and friends who had suffered a most tragic and devastating loss.

Julia Mulligan, Police and Crime Commissioner for North Yorkshire, said: "This is the worst news a family can receive and my sympathies and thoughts are with them all at this dreadful time.

"We urgently need to find out what happened and in due course to make sure that any lessons are learnt - I am reassured that the force is taking the necessary steps to do so.”

Mike Stubbs, of North Yorkshire Police Federation said: "Today we are mourning a member of our police family, who was killed making his way to an incident to help a member of the public.

"Andrew had quickly established himself as a well-liked and respected officer amongst his colleagues in North Yorkshire who are distraught at his death. Most tragically, he leaves behind a young family who are devastated.”

PC Bramma, who was the only occupant of the vehicle and was pronounced dead at the scene, had moved to the North Yorkshire force four months ago after transferring from Great Manchester Police.

Floral tributes have been left at the scene of the accident by fellow officers, offering ‘ deepest sympathies’ to his family. All flags at North Yorkshire police stations are also being flown at half-mast as a mark of respect.

The road was closed for several hours after the accident as the scene was examined by collision investigators. The Health and Safety Executive was also informed. Police do not believe anyone else was involved in the accident.

An online condolence book has been opened for people wishing to share their memories of Andrew and express their sympathy, which can be accessed at www.northyorkshire.police.uk/condolences.

*Officers are appealing to anyone who witnessed the collision or saw a police van travelling between Ripon police station and the scene of the incident, to contact them with information on 101.