Elizabeth Emblem for police killed hunting suspects

PC Christopher McDonald (left) and PC Ged Walker were killed trying to arrest suspects

Two officers from Nottinghamshire Police will be among the first recipients of an award for emergency service workers who died in the line of duty.

The Elizabeth Emblem, named after the late Queen, will be presented to the next of kin of more than 30 deceased firefighters, police officers and public servants in recognition of their loved ones' sacrifice.

PC Christopher McDonald and PC Ged Walker have been recognised after they were both killed trying to arrest suspects.

King Charles will award their families with the emblems later this year.

'No greater sacrifice'

PC McDonald was 19 when he was killed on 17 May 1978, after coming across a break-in at a jewellers' shop in Worksop and confronting a gang of offenders before chasing them.

In a subsequent struggle with a suspect, the officer suffered serious head injuries.

His mother will receive the Elizabeth Emblem in his honour.

His sisters Elaine Dean and Carol Bullock said: "It is really good that he is going to be remembered all these years on. It has been a long time coming.

"I don’t think a lot of people realise that officers put their lives in danger every day when they go to work.

"They are the thin blue line, and we are really proud as a family."

Dog handler PC ​Ged Walker was on duty in Bulwell when he was fatally injured as he tried to stop a stolen taxi 21 years ago.

He tried to remove the keys from the ignition and was dragged behind the car.

PC Walker died of his injuries two days later on 9 January 2003.

His wife Tracy, who will receive the Elizabeth Emblem, said: "We are very proud, and it is nice for the police to be acknowledged by the government for what he did.

"He has lost his life serving the community. There is no greater sacrifice and something that was never expected."

Chief Constable Kate Meynell told the BBC the force was pleased the officers had been formally recognised for their "bravery, courage and dedication".

She said: "Both were trying to arrest individuals responsible for criminal offences.

"The impact of that loss is still felt here within Nottinghamshire Police and we are determined and continue to remember their service and sacrifice."

The award was announced earlier this year following a two-year campaign.

Clare Brunton, from the Home Office, said the honour can recognise historical deaths, from January 1948.

She said: "On the military side, there is the Elizabeth Cross.

"It was noticed by a number of people - including some really committed campaigners - that there needed to be something on the civilian side as well."