Shot policeman 'lived for his job'

A police officer who was shot dead during a training exercise lived for his job, his family have said.

Pc Ian Terry, 32, from Burnley, Lancashire, was killed during a role play exercise in Manchester two days ago.

The father-of-two was also described as "the best dad" in a tribute released by his family and wife Joanne, 31. The family statement said he worried more about his policeman brother Paul's safety than his own.

The statement, released by Greater Manchester Police, said: "Ian was the best dad. His children meant the world to him as did Joanne. He was everyone's best friend and he is just such a loss to everyone he touched.

"Ian lived for his family and his job. They meant everything to him and he loved them both so much. We can take some comfort in the fact that he knew in return how much love and pride we, as a family, had for him. He had the same love, respect and pride from his friends and work colleagues.

"All his life Ian has been such a genuine and caring person that everyone who met him couldn't help being touched by his personality. He is such a great and tragic loss to his family, friends, colleagues and to society."

Pc Terry was playing the role of a criminal fleeing in a car when he was shot in the chest by a high-powered gun which disperses CS gas. He was not wearing body armour.

The exercise took place in a disused warehouse in Newton Heath, north Manchester, used by officers to practise firearms exercises. The Independent Police Complaints Commission is investigating the incident.

Meanwhile, Greater Manchester Police has suspended some firearms training following the death of Mr Terry.

A spokeswoman for the force said the use of the same rounds as those used in the training exercise two days ago would also be halted.