Widow grateful for force support

Jenny Lee Gray, in a statement read out by her solicitor Mr David Twigg, said: "I would like to express my sincere thanks to West Mercia Constabulary and The Police Federation for their support and particularly to Detective Constable Lesley Higgins for her help and guidance over the past few months.

"Also I wish to thank friends and strangers alike for all their kindnesses and Ricky's closest colleagues who have shown such consideration and friendship throughout what has been an exceedingly difficult time."

Constable Gray's eldest son Paul Gray said: "I would also like to say a huge thanks to West Mercia Constabulary and in particular Sue Prosser, my family liaison officer, who has always kept me informed and has made my stay down in Shropshire most welcome."

In a statement, Peter Medlicott's family said: "Now the inquest is over, we will focus on trying to move on with our lives.

"We would also like to thank West Mercia Police, in particular Sarah Morton, for their professionalism and support."

After the jury returned its verdict that Constable Gray, who lived in Bayston Hill, was unlawfully killed and Mr Medlicott killed himself, Coroner for mid and north Shropshire praised the dignity of both families involved in the inquest and offered them his sincere condolences.

He said: "I cannot forget it's not just one family who have suffered."