A CAMPAIGN to honour a fallen Clacton police officer has moved a step closer.

More than 5,000 people backed a campaign calling for Ian Dibell, who was shot down dead while trying to protect his neighbour, to be awarded the George Cross for his bravery.

Organisers, made up of former Essex police officers, have now submitted their nomination to the Honours and Appointments Committee at the Cabinet Office.

The move nomination comes just days before the National Police Memorial Day Service at York Minster on Sunday, which

honours the courage and sacrifice of police officers throughout the country.

Mr Dibell, 41, was killed near his home in Redbridge Road while he was off duty on July 9.

It is thought he was going to the aid of Trevor Marshall, 48, who was injured in the attack.

His suspected killer, Peter Reeve, 64, shot himself dead in a churchyard in Writtle, near Chelmsford, the following day.

Following the tragic event, a Facebook campaign was set-up by Chris Willcock, a retired civilian worker with Essex Police, which has attracted 4,355 people while 200 letters have been received from around the world.

Hunderds of people, including Home Secretary Theresa May, joined police officers for Pc Dibell’s memorial service at St James Church in Clacton-on-Sea on August 15.

Brendan Foy, an administrator for the campaign said: “Everyone has been overwhelmed at the level of support for this campaign, and the emotional and heart-felt comments we have received have touched everyone involved in ensuring that Ian’s courageous actions don’t go unrecognized.

“We have a very strong nomination, backed up by the support from the people of Essex, Ian’s friends, loved ones and former colleagues, and through support from all four corners of the world. It is now a case of waiting for the Honours and Appointments Committee to investigate the facts and make a decision.”