A Hampshire police officer has died his car went out of control and crashed into a tree.

Constable James Drew lost control of his Skoda Octavia in a dip on the A31 yesterday.

The 27-year-old’s red car left the road, went into a garden before crashing into a tree.

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Residents in the house found the wreckage and Mr Drew was taken to the Royal Hampshire County Hospital where he died.

Tributes were told paid to the 27-year-old from Eastleigh from the force and colleagues.

In a statement, his family said how much they would miss him.

"He was a popular man who very much enjoyed his job as a police officer and socialising with friends and family.

"James went to Toynbee School in Chandler's Ford, and throughout his life had been very interested in cars and motorcycles. "He enjoyed football and was a keen follower of Tottenham Hotspur football club.

"He was a fabulous son who will be sorely missed."

An investigation has now been launched into the crash that happened half a mile east of the Percy Hobbs pub, on the A31 Alresford Road, near Winchester.

Hampshire Chief Constable Alex Marshall said: “We are all saddened by this tragic incident.

“Out thoughts and sincerest condolences go to both James’s family and to police officers and staff who have lost a good friend a valued colleague.”

Meanwhile Geoff Crowe, chairman of Hampshire Police Federation, added: “The whole force, and in particular colleagues and friends of constable James Drew are shocked and saddened by this incident and the death of the officer.

“Our thoughts are with the officer’s family.”

Police have appealed for witnesses to the crash between 6am and 7am yesterday are asked to contact Cosham traffic police on 0845 045 4545.