TRIBUTES have been paid following the death of a retired police officer and cricket club stalwart from Chester.

Don Speakman, a former Cheshire Police officer of more than 30 years, passed away yesterday evening (January 14) after a short illness.

He was the father of PC Jonathan Speakman – a Cheshire Constabulary officer who drowned rescuing a child swept out to sea in Australia back in 2005.

Following that tragedy Don became involved in the Care of Police Survivors charity, for which he was a trustee and did so much for the families of fallen officers.

He was also a much-loved, long-serving member of Chester Boughton Hall Cricket Club, who said: "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 Chester Boughton Hall and we loved him. We send our deepest condolences to Don's family."

Cheshire Police Federation chairman Jamie Thompson said: “It’s a terribly sad day for the Cheshire Police family. The thoughts of all at 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."

Care of Police Survivors charity posted on Facebook: "It with deep sadness that we have to report the death of survivor and COPS trustee Don Speakman.

"He was dedicated to the charity and will be greatly missed. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and survivors that knew him. RIP."