Mourners gather to pay respects to young police officer

The 27-year-old, who was from Glengormley, died instantly when the unmarked car in which she was travelling with two colleagues was involved in a collision with a stolen 4x4 on the Limavady Road in Londonderry during the early hours of Saturday (February 9).

Two men aged 25 and 23 appeared in court in Londonderry on Monday to face a total of 14 charges in connection the incident, including causing death by dangerous driving. Both were remanded in custody.

Miss Reynolds, a former school teacher, had been a police constable for two years and joined the PSNI’s Foyle Response Team in 2011.

Tributes to the young officer were led by Chief Constable Matt Baggott, First Minister Peter Robinson and Justice Minister David Ford.

“Philippa died doing the job she loved, working on behalf of everyone in this community,” Mr Ford commented.

“Her tragic death has affected those who knew her, but many others as well, throughout these islands. I know that Philippa will be sadly missed by friends and neighbours in South Antrim, as well as among her police colleagues.”

Described by her fellow officers as “beautiful, friendly and bubbly”, she was also a popular member of Owls Ladies Hockey Club and was known to her team mates as ‘Flipper’.

One tribute on the club’s Facebook site said: “Our thoughts and prayers are with Philippa’s family. She was a huge part of this club both on and off the pitch. Always in our thoughts. Always smiling. Miss you Flipper! RIP.”

Miss Reynolds’ family and friends gathered at Mossley Methodist Church in New Mossley on Wednesday afternoon for a service of thanksgiving for her life.

Among those who attended the service were First Minister Peter Robinson, Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness and Chief Constable Matt Baggott.

Constable Reynolds was laid to rest at Carnmoney Cemetery East.