TRIBUTES have been paid to former Cheshire Police officer Don Speakman.

A servant of the force for 30 years, he died on Thursday evening after a short illness.

Mr Speakman was the dad of PC Jonathan Speakman, a police constable who served in the Stockton Heath area, who died aged 33 in 2005 saving the life of a drowning child in Australia.

He became heavily involved in the Care of Police Survivors after his son’s death and later became a trustee of the charity.

Cheshire Police Federation chairman Jamie Thompson said: “It’s a terribly sad day for the Cheshire Police family.

“The thoughts of all at the Cheshire Police Federation and the officers we represent are with Don's family and friends and the COPS family.

“He always spoke so proudly of Jonathan and supported other members of the police family who had lost loved ones on duty.

“He will be much missed."

Chester Boughton Hall Cricket Club also paid tribute, saying in a statement: “It is with great sadness that we report the passing of a special member of the Chester Boughton Hall family, Don Speakman.

“Don slipped away on Thursday evening after a short illness.

“A colourful character and clubman through and through, we hang our heads in sorrow but smile as we recall his personality and idiosyncrasies.

“Don loved CBH and we loved him .

“We send our deepest condolences to Don's family.”