Tributes paid to stabbed PC

Colleagues of a policeman who died after being stabbed in an attack in Luton on Monday morning have paid tribute to him.

PC John Henry, 36, was fatally stabbed in the town centre after responding to reports that a man was attacking a window cleaner with a knife outside Marks & Spencer in George Street.

PC Henry, who attended the scene with a number of other officers, was stabbed as he struggled with the attacker, who was eventually restrained after officers used a baton round and Taser stun gun.

PC Henry was taken to Luton and Dunstable Hospital, but died later from his injuries.

Senior police officers have confirmed that he was wearing a protective vest when the attack occurred.

Two other men were stabbed during the attack. One of them, a 55-year-old man from Luton, suffered a serious stab wound to his back.

No details have been given about the second man, but it is understood that he also received hospital treatment.

A man has been arrested on suspicion of murder.

PC Henry was married to wife, Mary, and the couple had a baby daughter, Maggie, who will turn one in a few weeks.

A statement issued on behalf of PC Henry's wife described him as: "fun-loving, a true friend, a loyal and devoted husband and father".

Nicky Dahl, divisional commander for Luton, said: "John had been in the police service for three years and was described by his colleagues as a great guy, always cracking jokes."

Chief Constable Gillian Parker said of PC Henry: "His dedication to his duty cost him his life."

(KMcA/JM)