POLICE celebrated the restoration of a heroic constable's grave with a service of rededication.

Officers joined PC Howard Overton's 103-year-old niece for the ceremony in Great Malvern Ceremony on Saturday.

Sgt Alexander Denny led a campaign to restore the constable's overgrown grave after learning about how he died.

PC Overton lost his life in an attempt to save a child from oncoming traffic in Worcester Road, Malvern, in 1928.

Patricia Aldridge, the constable's niece, said: "14 of his relatives attended the rededication and all felt proud to be related to him.

"It was a lovely rededication and I also really enjoyed the [Mayor's] civic service at the Priory.

"Congratulations to Sgt Denny for his initiative. All credit to the police and the town for reviving Howard’s memory - and to the stonemason for his beautiful restoration."

Steve Allard and Son Stonemasons offered their services for free after reading about PC Overton's story.

Mr Allard made a new plaque for the constable's grave and refurbished his existing headstone.

Deputy Chief Constable Amanda Blakeman, who attended the event, said: "Every day officers have to leave for work not knowing if they are coming home again.

"This was no different in 1928 and for Malvern police officer PC Overton. He noticed a young girl running into the road and he reacted immediately, saving her life but tragically losing his.

"The community response to Sergeant Denny to have a fitting memorial for PC Overton has been overwhelming and goes to show that the communities we serve recognise and are grateful for our service and that our actions are not going unnoticed."

PC Overton died on May 28, 1928 and is listed on the Carnegie Hero Fund Trust.