A FAMILY and the police force were in mourning after a dedicated officer who died in a horrific crash was laid to rest.

Police constable James 'Dixie' Dixon was on his motorbike on the A4, Bath Road, Hare Hatch when he collided with another vehicle on December 5.

The service was held at Saint James the Less Church in Pangbourne on Thursday morning.

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Gladys Goodwin, 91, was also killed in the crash and more than £7,000 has been fundraised to help both families.

As well as serving with Thames Valley Police for 18 years, PC Dixon, 39, was renowned for his appearances on Road Wars.

His wife, Samantha, is thought to have been pregnant with their first child at the time of his death.

A family statement issued after his funeral said: “Today we said our final goodbyes to James Dixon, or Dixie as he was affectionately known by many.

“He was a loving husband, excited father-to-be, caring son and brother and genuine friend to many. He was one of life's legends.

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“We are all truly heartbroken and devastated by his loss. His death leaves behind a hole that can never and will never be filled. He will be missed forever and never forgotten.

“His family ask that you continue to respect their privacy during this extremely difficult time.”

PC Dixon was based at Loddon Valley Station and was on-duty when his life was tragically cut short.

Matthew Claxson, partner at Moore Blatch – who represents Mrs Dixon, added: “The collision which took place on December 5 was a tragedy for all involved and we would like to send our most heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of James and Gladys.

“Unfortunately, road traffic collisions involving wholly innocent motorcyclist victims are far too common and at Moore Blatch we continue to campaign for improved road safety protections.

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“In respect to Mrs Dixon and her family, it would not be appropriate for us to discuss specific details of the case at this time, other than to say that the police investigation into the incident is on-going and we continue to support Mrs Dixon through the legal process.”

The Independent Police Complaints Commission is investigating the collision.

Sandra Blunden, the daughter of Mrs Goodwin, said she would be 'completely lost without her'.

She said: "I will remember her as the perfect mum that everybody would want.”