POLICE officers in Cumbria and across the country have spoken of their shock at the tragedy which claimed the life of a colleague on the M6 Motorway.

The Cumbrian force confirmed late last night that a 47-year-old officer who worked for its Mobile Support Group had been pronounced dead at the scene of the accident on the motorway’s southbound carriageway near Carlisle.

He was the vehicle's only occupant.

It happened at about 2pm, said a spokesman for the force.

In the hours since the officer's death was confirmed, there has been an outpouring of sympathy on social media, including on the News & Star’s website as it reported the tragedy.

Meanwhile, Paul Williams, Chairman of Cumbria Police Federation, said: “All Cumbria Police officers are shocked and saddened to learn about the death of our colleague, who died in a single vehicle road traffic collision whilst on duty.

‪“The officer served on Cumbria’s Road Policing Unit and his sudden passing has caused deep shock and grief to the policing family in Cumbria and across the UK.

‪“National Police Federation of England and Wales Chair John Apter - and Federation colleagues from across the country - have been in touch to pass on their deepest condolences at this sad time and offer Cumbria their support.

“It is appreciated.

‪“Cumbria Police Federation will work closely with the specialist officers investigating this incident and we will ensure that we do all that we can to support the officer’s family and close colleagues during this tragic time.”

In a statement, a spokesman for Cumbria Police said that specialist officers are supporting his family at this time.

No further details about the man's identity have been released.

Junctions 43 to 44 of the M6 were closed for several hours yesterday as emergency services and police accident investigation experts worked at the scene.

The motorway was fully reopened last night.