HUNDREDS of Hampshire police officers gathered for a poignant service this afternoon to remember their colleague who was killed in a cycle crash.

The family of PC Richard Phillips-Schofield joined officers and police staff at Hampshire Constabulary's headquarters in Netley to pay tribute to the 33-year-old.

The service was led Chief Constable Andy Marsh, alongside by the emergency services chaplain Reverend Roger Whatley.

PC Phillips-Schofield's mum Elizabeth also took the opportunity to thank everyone for their support since her son's death on Tuesday.

A minutes silence was held, which was also honoured by his colleagues in Bitterne police station, where he served.

His funeral will be held in his home town of Solihull in a few weeks times.

As previously reported, the passionate cyclist died 48 hours after coming off his race bike during a British Cycling event in which he was competing at the Mountbatten Centre, in Portsmouth.

He had been in a critical condition in hospital since Sunday afternoon, where he was being treated for life-threatening head and chest injuries.

Since the tragic news filtered through to stations across the county, flags have been flying at half mast, while flowers and candles have been delivered to Bitterne police station, as well as Portswood station, where he served previously.

The huge outpouring of sympathy from members of the public has overwhelmed his family as well as his colleagues who have been stopped during their patrols by people offering their condolences.

Richard was described as a naturally gifted sportsman and a first class officer by those who knew him.