Police said both unarmed officers suffered fatal injuries during a “routine operation” in Hattersley, Tameside.

They were named at a police press conference as Fiona Bone,32, and Nicola Hughes, 26. (pictured at the bottom)

Fiona had five years of police service behind her, and had come out of her shell after being initially reserved.  She was planning to marry her partner.

Whilst Nicola, it was revealed, had spent three years in the police force and was known to be a chatterbox. She always had time for everyone. She loved Karate.

One of the police offiicers had died at the scene, the second at hospital.

They were attending a call that had come at 10 am, that there had been a burglary and were attacked with gun shots and a grenade.

A witness in Abbey Gardens said they had heard 10 gunshots and an explosion.

A short time after, Dale Cregan, 29, (pictured below) was arrested in connection with the officers’ deaths and two previous murders. He had walked into by Text-Enhance” href=”#”>Hyde police station shortly after the incident.

Police believe that Cregan had called police to report the burglary.

Dale Cregan: on bail over fatal pub shooting

Assistant Chief Constable Garry Shewan said it was “a tragic day” for Greater Manchester Police.

“A long and dark shadow has been cast across Greater Manchester and my thoughts are with the officers’ families, friends and colleagues.

“We will be doing everything we can to support them over the coming days and weeks.”