Humza Yousaf to pay tribute to police officers killed while on duty in Belfast

The Scottish Justice Secretary will travel to Northern Ireland to pay tribute to police officers who have died in the line of duty over the past year.

Humza Yousaf will attend the National Police Memorial Day Service in Belfast, joining families and colleagues of fallen officers.

Ahead of the event, he said: "I am honoured to attend this year's National Police Memorial Day Service, and to pay tribute to all of those who have given their lives in the line of duty.

"Those police officers recognised today are a credit to our services. It's vital that we continue to remember them and offer our support to their families and colleagues.

"I am reminded daily of how often our police officers go above and beyond.

"Our officers are a hugely dedicated and professional workforce who work for the safety and well-being of communities across the country.

"I am deeply grateful for the job they do in order to keep us safe.''

John Alcock was one of the UK officers who died in the last 12 months after being injured while on duty.

The 54-year-old, from Aberdeenshire, died last October after being in a coma for 14 years.

He was involved a crash in August 2003 while a passenger in a marked police car.

Mr Alcock was left in a persistent vegetative state following the incident, which happened as he was travelling to Ballater police station.

It is understood his son will light a candle at the service.

Christine Fulton, co-founder of the Scottish Police Memorial Trust, said: "It's a very important day in the police calendar.

"It's very important for the police officers' sacrifices are remembered and it means a great deal to the families that the Justice Secretary recognises that sacrifice and attends the service."