HUNDREDS of mourners gathered to bid a final farewell to a popular young Hampshire police officer.

About 100 uniformed police officers, plus more than 200 friends and family, paid their last respects to PC James Drew.

Mourners packed into the chapel at Southampton Crematorium, leaving standing room only, and many gathered outside to listen to the service on a loud speaker.

PC Drew died on January 22 after he lost control of his Skoda Octavia on the A31 Alresford Road, near Winchester. The 27-year-old, who lived in Chandler’s Ford, was on his way to work in Alton.

Michael Broach paid tribute to his lifelong best friend during the service.

He said: “I was lucky enough to be his best friend, and I have known James since I was four years old.

“James and I spent all our free time together as kids. We were always together and always there for each other.

“James was charismatic, cheeky and loved life.”