Tributes were paid to hundreds of officers and staff who lost their lives while serving in the Metropolitan Police Service.

The force's commissioner, Sir Bernard Hogan-Howe, led tributes yesterday in the MPS's thirteenth annual remembrance service at the Peel Centre in Hendon.

Wreaths were also laid in memory of those who had lost their lives, including those who died during the First World War.

The Commissioner said: "The Metropolitan Police Service has a proud history. I feel that pride every day, when I hear stories of officers and staff taking huge personal risks to protect the public.

"In upholding the office of constable and fulfilling the pledge they made on attestation, police officers will often run toward danger, not away from it.

"Sadly this means that there are occasions when our colleagues pay the ultimate price. It is important that each year we pay tribute to those who have died, and remember the sacrifice they have made.

"We will always be indebted to them for their service. We should not and will not forget them."