Touching tributes have been paid to a Nottinghamshire Police officer who died in the line of duty protecting a member of the public from harm.
Close colleagues of Graham Saville gathered at Radford Road Police Station to share their memories on Thursday 31 August.
The news of Graham’s death has left a “huge hole” in the policing family as they come to terms with what has happened.
The father-of-two had just been promoted as a response sergeant based at Newark Police Station when the incident occurred.
Graham, 46, started his career with the Metropolitan Police in 2013, before transferring to Nottinghamshire Police in February 2017.
The majority of his time was spent as a response officer at Radford Road Police Station where many of his colleagues are based.
Colleagues described him as a “family man” who enjoyed spending quality time with his two young children, wife, and two dogs.
He enjoyed mountain biking, running, and coaching his son’s football team. Officers said he loved Nottingham and saw it as his home.
Speaking on behalf of his team at Radford Road Police Station, PC Matt Pugsley said: “Graham was a wonderful person and amazing police officer.
“He was a true friend and took great pride in helping and developing those who were young in service.
“He had tutored a number of officers, and they all speak so highly of him.
“Graham’s presence would lift the mood of any shift and he was always eager to help and support the team.
“As officers we sometimes deal with some horrendous incidents and Graham would always ensure the team were coping.
“This is testament to his character. Graham also had an amazing sense of humour and would always make the team laugh.
“His loss will leave a huge hole in the team and the force, and it will be felt for many years to come.
“Graham was always proud to be an officer, to serve the public, and took great pride in what he did every single day.
“We are honoured to have known him.”
Sgt Ollie Chadwick added: “We have lost a friend not just a police officer.
“We were so lucky to have a response officer with so much experience.
“He was always willing to help and get stuck in.
“He loved working for the police and was so pleased that he had got the job in Newark and was offered a promotion.
“Words cannot describe how much he will be missed.”
A digital book of condolence has been set up for officers, police staff, and members of the public to leave their messages.
It will then be transformed into a book for Graham’s family to keep at a later date.
Nottinghamshire Police and the Police Federation are also aware of a JustGiving page set up by a former Nottinghamshire police officer.
This was set up in the aftermath of the tragic incident with the stated intention of raising funds to support Graham’s family.
The generosity of the public and colleagues in donating to this site is testament to the appreciation of the selfless actions of the officer.
Chief Constable Kate Meynell said: “I have personally seen the impact that Graham’s death has had on officers that not only knew him but also those who didn’t.
“There is a significant challenge ahead of us but I am really confident as a policing family that we will come together and support each other through this incredibly devastating time.
“My main focus is to make sure that Graham, his service and sacrifice are never forgotten.”
The book of condolence can be found here: https://forms.office.com/e/254g3fvaDE
