TRIBUTES have been paid to the mother of a Bolton police officer who was killed in the line of duty.

Joan Egerton died on Sunday, aged 83, and Greater Manchester Police Federation has praised her warmth and kindness over the years.

She gave her time to support families of officers who died on duty.

Mrs Egerton’s son, John Egerton was stabbed to death in a factory yard in Farnworth, aged just 20.

He was trying to arrest a man who was stealing petrol from a van in the Dynamics Plastic Works on March 11, 1982, when he was fatally wounded.

Mrs Egerton has been described as an ‘inspiration’ by Ian Hanson, chairman of GMP Federation.

He said: “Joan’s kindness and warmth have been incredible to witness and it has been my honour to get to know her over the years.

“She has always been the first to support family members of police officers who have died on duty — people who have gone through what she endured.

“She has been an inspiration to us all and a huge part of the police family. I know everyone at Greater Manchester Police – and particularly the Bolton division – will be thinking of the Egerton family as Joan is reunited with her son who she loved so much.”

The John Egerton Trophy is presented each year by Greater Manchester Police to a serving officer who has shown bravery in the line of duty.

Mrs Egerton often presented the award to the officer.

She leaves behind four daughters as well as six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

On the night of his death, PC Egerton had been called to assist a colleague who had been seen climbing over a factory gate.

The Bolton News: PC John Egerton. Farnwrth policeman stabbed to death. Bolton Evening News 1988.

PC John Egerton

They split up to search the area and a short time later PC Egerton used his radio to say he had disturbed someone.

The body of the 20-year-old was later discovered and he had suffered four stab wounds to the head and body, which proved fatal.

PC Egerton’s killer was jailed for life and released in 2000 after 18 years.

In 2012, a plaque was unveiled near to the scene of his death in Egerton Street Farnworth, by his niece Leanne Cartmel, who was born just hours after his murder.

A number of ceremonies have been held to commemorate the life of PC Egerton. Each year a police football tournament is held his memory. His name is on GMP’s Roll of Honour.