Floral tributes and a bag of Valentine's gifts have been left at the spot where Trowbridge police office Daniel Cooper died on Monday night.

PC Cooper, 22, who was a former pupil at Corsham School, and who lived with his parents near Melksham, died when the patrol car he was driving lost control on a left-hand bend in Westwood Road and crashed into a tree at about 8pm.

He had been manning a roadblock following an earlier accident nearby and had been tasked to an ongoing incident, believed to be in Southwick, when the crash happened.

A Facebook site, set up in his memory, has attracted hundreds of loving tributes from close friends, colleagues, former colleagues and police officers from forces around the country. The memorial group, which was set up on Monday, now has more than 660 members.

One tribute, from Zoe Sharman, said: "Dan, i can't believe it. What happened? My phone is so so quiet, you are my best friend. You were always there for me no matter what time of the day or night it was...... i'm gunna (sic) miss you like crazy. Sleep well xxx"

Another, from Victoria Mockridge, said: "I am so shocked to hear this tragic news. Dan it was a great pleasure knowing you, working with you in A&E and seeing you fulfill your dream of becoming a police officer. You were a fantastic guy and you will be greatly missed forever!! My love and thoughts are with your family. RIP Dan. Xxxxx"

PC Cooper had been with the Wiltshire Police since May 2007 and previously volunteered for the special constabulary.

His colleagues at Trowbridge police station and around the force are being offered counselling to cope with their loss.

Wiltshire Police's occupational health manager, Penny Fuller, said: 'In traumatic times such as this the force understands the great difficulties that our staff face and a wide range of support is provided.

"This support can be counselling or other specialist services but in each case it is tailored to the individual officers or staff members' needs and is available to everyone. Staff welfare is key and we recognise the need for, and are fully committed to, providing ongoing support over the longer term as the force comes to terms with the loss of PC Cooper."

The Health and Safety Executive and the Independent Police Complaints Commission have been informed of the death.

If anyone can help police with the inquiry into the crash, call the Serious Collision Investigation Team on 0845 408 7000.