A MUM of three is fundraising for police officers to enjoy a free Christmas meal after feeling "shocked" by the fact they have to pay for it themselves.

Katie Baxter from Lower Earley in Wokingham found out that police workers don't get a company Christmas meal or celebration after chatting to her best friend, who's husband works at Loddon Valley Police Station.

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The mum-of-three said: "I just felt the need to help. I was moved after what happened to PC Harper and the lack of funding within the police.

"My friends husband has been within the police force for nearly 30 years and I know a lot of them don't get pay rises so it is just a little something to say thank you for all of their hard work."

Katie posted the Crowdfunding page on Facebook and was amazed by the response she got from residents in Wokingham.

The former child minder has so far collected £690 from her £1,000 target and commends the spirit of the community.

She said: "I lost my husband in 2013 and the community came together to raise money for his funeral so I am amazed at how generous they are."

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A total of £1,000 needs to be raised so five teams of 20 people can go on a Christmas meal.

She explained how there has to be different teams celebrating the festive period due to there having to be police officers on the beat.

Residents responded with open arms to the fundraiser with a manager from The Jazz Cafe at the Madejski stadium in Reading offering a 'huge discount' for Christmas party bookings.

One resident said: "I think it is a lovely idea and it will show the police that we are grateful to them and all they do for us.

"There is too much negativity and lack of respect for the police these days."

Visit: http://bit.ly/2OixIQH to donate to the fundraising page.