A memorial service for a Shropshire police officer shot dead as he went to the aid of two unarmed colleagues is to be held in the county town next month.The service for Constable Ricky Gray will be at St Chad’s Church, Shrewsbury, from 4pm on September 7 and will be attended by family, friends and police colleagues as well as being open to the public.

Constable Gray died from a gunshot wound while going to the aid of unarmed colleagues being held by gunman Peter Medlicott in Shrewsbury on May 6 last year.

Superintendent Pete Lightwood, one of the organisers, said: “The service will last for about 45 minutes and is intended to be a celebration of Ricky’s life and memory.

“It will be followed by the dedication of a sandstone memorial to Ricky in the Quarry Dingle by his wife Mrs Jenny Lee Gray and West Mercia’s Chief Constable, Mr Paul West.”

Mrs Gray said she wanted the service to be open to the public following the tremendous support shown by people across Shropshire and beyond.

She said: “Everyone has been exceptionally kind to me. I have had so many messages of support for which I am most grateful. They mean a great deal. All who wish to attend St Chad’s for Ricky’s memorial service will be most welcome.”

During the service, Mr West will be among those giving readings and a member of Constable Gray’s old Army regiment, the Black Watch, will read a poem by Robert Burns. Pupils from Shrewsbury’s Belvidere School will play music at various stages during the service, including several pieces from ELO, one of Constable Gray’s favourite groups.

St Chad’s Terrace will be closed to traffic for a few minutes shortly before 5pm for the congregation to go into the Quarry.