Widow of Nottinghamshire police officer pays tribute to 'wonderful’ man

The wife of the Nottinghamshire police officer killed in the line of duty has paid tribute to him as a 'wonderful man' who had a desire to help others.

Colleagues of Graham Saville gathered at Radford Road Police Station this afternoon to share their memories of him.

He had recently been promoted as a response sergeant based out of Newark police station.

The 46-year-old died in hospital on Tuesday, five days after being hit by a train while trying to help someone in distress in Balderton near Newark. He leaves behind two young children.

In a tribute shared today, Sgt Saville's wife said: "Graham was a wonderful man. He was laid back, funny, silly and adventurous - he lived life to the full.

"He loved his job and joined the police to do something worthwhile and to make a difference.

"Ultimately his desire to help others has led to him making the ultimate sacrifice. We are devastated. The outpouring of love from all those who knew him is testament to the amazing person he was.

"We are so lucky to have loved him."

The incident led to a 29-year-old man on the railway line being treated in hospital for burn injuries caused by electricity.

Police are not carrying out a criminal investigation into Sgt Saville's death.

A JustGiving fundraiser for his family has reached more than £125,000 in donations.

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."

Colleagues say he enjoyed mountain biking, running, and coaching his son’s football team.

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.”