A husband today paid tribute to his pregnant wife who collapsed and died - although doctors were able to deliver her twin babies.

Pc Sarah Underhill was rushed to the John Radcliffe Hospital from the home she shared with her husband Richard — who is also a police officer — in Wallingford.

Doctors were able to deliver the babies, who have been named James Thomas and Hannah Louise and Pc Underhill's father Arnold Whapham said they were both progressing well.

Mr Underhill paid moving tribute to his wife today.

He said: “Sarah and I were as close as you could be. We loved each other very much and were desperately keen for a family.

"When we married in June 2005 we wanted to have children and we were overjoyed when Sarah became pregnant earlier this year.

“We had nine months of apprehension, fear and joy. When Sarah got past 30 weeks we were so excited.

"On October 2 Sarah was admitted to the John Radcliffe Hospital with maternity-related complications. On the Sunday morning she collapsed and died.

"I last saw her on Saturday afternoon and although she was virtually incapacitated because she was so big, she was so happy and chirpy.

“After Sarah collapsed and died our twins, James and Hannah, were delivered by Caesarean section. Both are now out of intensive care.

"The care the babies have received has been fantastic. The hospital staff have done everything they can for them.

“Hannah is making great progress and James has already overcome some major hurdles, although it is difficult to know at this stage whether or not he will have any long-term problems.

"I cuddle the twins and it makes me feel happy because I really love those children, but when I leave I feel guilty having felt joy in this sad time. We knew we were having a boy and a girl and it was the perfect combination."

“I want Sarah to be proud in the way I bring up our children – I want to bring them up the way she wanted.

“I will miss her so very much.”