THE devastated family of a policewoman from Ellesmere Port killed when a bomb exploded at the Manchester Arena has paid tribute to a much-loved mum who was 'thoughtful beyond belief'.

Elaine McIver died following the explosion at the pop concert of US singer Ariana Grande on Monday.

In a statement released today, Thursday, her family said: "Elaine was a much loved daughter, sister, Auntie, friend and colleague, the best we could ever have wished for.

"She was everyone's friend, thoughtful beyond belief with an effervescent and outgoing personality.

"She would have been devastated by the injuries sustained by her partner Paul, and we all wish him a speedy recovery.

"Elaine just loved life, and had a major love of music.

"Despite what has happened to her, she would want us all to carry on regardless and not be frightened by fear tactics, instead she regularly urged us all to rise up against it.

"Although we will all miss her beyond belief, we absolutely know she will live in our hearts forever."

A memorial service was held at Cheshire Constabulary's HQ in Winsford today in memory of PC McIver, who was based at Ellesmere Port.

Husband Paul remains in a critical condition in hospital while the couple's children were also injured.

Cheshire's Chief Constable Simon Byrne and Cheshire Police & Crime Commissioner paid tribute today after it emerged a serving Cheshire Police officer is known to be one of the 22 who died at the Manchester Arena on Monday 22 May.

Chief Constable Byrne said: "It is with a heavy heart that I have to speak about the loss of a serving officer of ours in the Manchester Arena terrorist incident and all our thoughts are with her family at this time.

"Detective Constable Elaine McIver, 43, joined the Constabulary as a special 20 years ago and became a regular officer in September 1998.

"Elaine worked in Ellesmere Port, Warrington and in the Economic Crime Unit at headquarters in Winsford before moving to the regional organised crime unit TITAN in 2013".

Police have so far confirmed 22 people were killed in the attack in the heart of Manchester, including the officer who was off-duty at the time.

The suspected suicide bomber has since been named as 22-year-old Salman Abedi from Manchester.

Eight people have been arrested as the investigation continues.