A Wirral soldier-turned-policeman who was left in a coma following a road accident has died.

Gulf War veteran Paul Briggs, who is in his early 40s, suffered a severe brain injury in a motorcycle crash on the Birkenhead flyover while serving with Merseyside Police in July 2015.

His death, on Saturday morning, comes a month after his wife Lindsey won a court battle to let him die.

After the ruling in the Court of Protection Mrs Briggs said: "The court case was the hardest thing we have ever had to do but we did it for Paul, to honour his wishes. 

"We are grateful that Mr Justice Charles has shown compassion towards Paul, has respected his wishes and values and has understood what Paul would have wanted.

"He has been able to place himself in Paul's situation, and for that we will be forever thankful."

Mr Briggs was moved to a hospice where palliative care experts gradually withdrew his life support ensuring that he was pain free.

On Twitter Mrs Briggs said: "I am so sorry to say Paul died this morning as a result of his RTC. We're devastated and trying to come to terms with all he's been put through."

Merseyside Police chief constable Andy Cooke, said: "On behalf of PC Briggs' colleagues and friends at Merseyside Police I want to let his family know that we are all thinking of them at this tragic time.

"I have met with Paul's wife Lindsey and the last 16 months have been devastating for her and Paul's family, but they bravely fought for the Paul's right to die. Paul was a young man and his death is a tragedy, but I know that Lindsey, his daughter Ella, and his family, will find some comfort in knowing that Paul is now at peace and his wishes have been honoured.

"Paul joined Merseyside Police in 2004, following in his father's footsteps by choosing a career in policing after leaving the Army. His first posting was in Wallasey between 2004 and 2007.

"From there Paul joined the Roads Policing Unit in 2007, where he quickly became a valued member of the team. Paul dedicated his career to protecting the public and the force is flying the flag at half mast in his honour. Our thoughts and condolences are with Lindsey, Ella, his family, friends and colleagues."