Partner of murdered cop speaks out about the ‘gentle giant’ she loved

The girlfriend of police sergeant Matt Ratana, gunned down in Croydon Police Station on Thursday, has paid tribute to the brave and loving man in her life.

Su Bushby praised the 54-year-old’s courage and love in a moving statement issued by the Metropolitan Police today.

She said: “There aren’t really any words for how I am feeling right now about the loss of Matt; about losing someone I loved and was so close to in such a tragic manner.

“I know Matt touched many, many people’s lives with his friendliness, patience, kindness, enthusiasm and caring ways.

“I had the pleasure of sharing five years of my life with this lovely man – my gentle giant, with his infectious smile and big heart. I think of him with tenderness and love.

“Matt was my partner, friend, confidant, support and soul mate.

“He will be greatly missed but never forgotten. Matt will always be in my head and in my heart.”