THE WIDOW of hero policeman Andrew Harper has said her late husband was 'looking down on us all with pride' at yesterday's Ride of Respect.

Thousands of bikers rode from RAF Benson to Abingdon in PC Harper's memory, led by his wife Lissie Harper and other family members.

Mrs Harper has now thanked organiser Sian Sloper and everyone else who made the event happen, including volunteers and the people who lined the streets to watch.

READ AGAIN: Pictures from PC Harper Ride of Respect

Posting publicly on the event's Facebook page today, she said: "A few months ago in an incredibly sad and heartbreaking time, one of many events shone through to us... A ride of respect for our favourite man and everything he stood for.

"At a time like this it gave us all something good to think about. Little did we know at the time how many amazing people we would meet because of it.

"You have all touched my heart and given me hope again."

Herald Series:

Thousands of motorcyclists at the Ride of Respect for PC Harper, starting at RAF Benson. Picture: Ben Birchall/PA Wire

PC Harper sacrificed his life in the line of duty in August, and a murder investigation is ongoing.

Ms Sloper, from Berkshire, decided to organise the ride as a show of solidarity.

ALSO READ: Ride of Respect as it happened

Mrs Harper wrote in her post: "This event started off as an idea from a kind lady wanting to make a difference in a hopeless moment for our country.

"She envisioned a small group of riders showing their respect on their motorbikes, little did she know how huge it would become.

"Not daunted by anything Sian Sloper began organising one of the biggest events in this country."

The pair have since become friends and Mrs Harper described her as 'the kindest lady' who 'has been an integral part of the journey me and my family have begun.'

PC Harper was a motorcyclist himself, and his widow's brother Jake Beckett fixed the policeman's bike so he and his sister could lead the pack on it yesterday.

Herald Series:

Picture: Brian Catt

They were joined at the start line yesterday by PC Harper's brother and sister, and other family members and friends, followed by thousands of bikers who had been touched by PC Harper's death.

Mrs Harper added: "I can’t express enough what an honour it was to ride with you all. 6000+ people coming from all ends of the country and further.

"I know that Andrew was looking down on us all with pride.

"So thank you so much to every single person who made the day possible. It sure does make me proud to be British."

ALSO READ: PC Andrew Harper's wife reads emotional tribute at funeral

Posting on the page last night, Ms Sloper said: "What an incredible day... I am so so proud of you all for making today as amazing as it was.

"I think we did PC Harper proud, his family proud and what a display of solidarity and support."