TRIBUTES have been paid to a hero police officer who was one of the first on the scene at the Manchester Arena bombing.

PC Jane Bridgewater, from Accrington, died on November 4 following a short illness.
The officer for the British Transport Police in Manchester was thanked by families of the victims of the Manchester Arena bombing after she was one of the first on the scene, administering first aid to the injured.

In a tribute, Chief Superintendent Glen Alderson said: “It’s with great sadness we can confirm a serving police officer, PC Jane Bridgewater, very sadly passed away following medical complications on 4 November.

“Jane was based in Manchester and had over 20 years of distinguished service within British Transport Police, which included being one of the first on scene at the Arena bombing in May 2017.

“Our deepest condolences are with her wife Bernie, her family, and all those who knew and loved her.”

The officer was in the city centre on May 22 when she heard the explosion at the arena and arrived on the scene within minutes.

She ran straight into the foyer to administer first aid to the victims despite being scared for her own safety.

PC Bridgewater administered rescue breaths to Elaine McIver, an off duty police officer who sadly died from her injuries.

She also administered chest compressions to Alison Howe who also died.

A tribute from the British Transport Police Federation said: “It is with great sadness that we hear of the passing of PC Jane Bridgewater.

“Jane’s death was sudden and a shock to us all. She was a popular and respected colleague who had served over 23 years as a police officer in BTP.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Jane’s wife, family, friends and colleagues.

“Clearly this will be a difficult time for many in BTP, if you are affected by this very sad news please reach out for support from your federation, line managers or fellow colleagues.”

One of Jane’s colleagues said: “Everyone is going to miss Jane, a lovely person and a cracking officer. Rest in peace Jane."

While another added: “Goodnight god bless Jane  I had so many good laughs with her on shift. She’ll be greatly missed. My thoughts are with her family and friends at such a sad time.”

One colleague said she was the ‘mum of the shift'. They said: “Can’t believe it. She was always such a well-loved member of the team, positive and mum of the shift. Such a loss. Jane will be hugely missed. RIP.”

The arena bombing after an Ariana Grande concert claimed 22 lives and left hundreds more people injured.