Murdered Durham police officer James Porter gets Elizabeth Emblem

DC James Brian Porter – known as Jim - was just 31 when he was shot dead by Eddie Horner on March 4, 1982.

He spotted two men including Horner running across fields at the rear of a wallpaper factory  in Bishop Auckland and when he intercepted them Horner climbed on a stile and shot him at point blank range through the chest.

DC Jim Porter pictured in uniform aged 19. He was just 31 when he died, and had young children.

Read the full story of the shocking murder or DC Jim Porter HERE

This week his family were invited to Windsor Castle to collect a new award – the Elizabeth Emblem.

DC Porter's family collect the Elizabeth Emblem in their dad's honour from King Charles III. (Image: DURHAM POLICE) The medal, named after the late Queen, has been given to the families of 30 police officers, firefighters and public servants who died in the line of duty.

He was the last Durham Police officer to be killed in service.

His family including son Brian, who was just eight-years-old when his dad was killed, were given the emblem by the King.

(Image: DURHAM POLICE) Jim’s family said: “It was a very proud and emotional day to receive this award from His Majesty, the King.

“It is such a shame that our mam was not there to collect it herself. 

DC Porter's wife Eilieen.

“It is a great recognition to all the brave men and women who lost their lives in the line of duty.”

(Image: DURHAM POLICE) Two years after his death Jim was posthumously awarded the Queen’s Commendation for Brave Conduct for his courageous actions. In May 1985 his wife Eileen, alongside Brian and daughter Tracey, unveiled a memorial plaque in the Bishop Auckland police station from which DC Porter set out that day.

A service was held on the 40th anniversary of his death in 2022 and a plaque unveiled in his memory.

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Durham Constabulary Chief Constable Rachel Bacon added: “What DC James Porter did that day went beyond the call of duty. His actions are a testament to his dedication as a police officer.

“The Elizabeth Emblem is a fitting way to honour those families of their loved ones who made the ultimate sacrifice. I am delighted Jim has been recognised.

“The courageous actions of DC Porter may have taken place more than 40 years ago, but they will never be forgotten in Durham Constabulary.”