TRIBUTES have been paid to a former Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinator who dedicated years to the community crime awareness scheme.


The unexpected death of Carole Dennis MBE, who was just 57, has been described as a tragic loss to the people of Colchester.


Mrs Dennis, of Northgate Street, was Colchester borough co-ordinator for Neighbourhood Watch until last year, and was recognised for that by being made MBE in 2006.


She leaves behind husband Ron, three children and two grandchildren.
 

Colchester’s MP Sir Bob Russell said: “My wife and I were deeply saddened to hear of her death at such a relatively young age.
 

“She did more to promote Neighbourhood Watch in Colchester than anybody else had ever done.
 

“We will never know how many crimes she helped to deter, nor how many crimes were traced because of the Neighbourhood Watch scheme.
 

“The work she did for Neighbourhood Watch helped in many parts of Colchester make the community safer.
 

“What would be a lasting tribute would be that the Neighbourhood Watch scheme continues and further expands. Because of her stewardship, it is one of the best Neighbourhood Watch schemes in the country - that is all due to her leadership, enthusiasm and ability to get volunteers to come forward and organise things in the local community.”


Sir Bob said he was so impressed by Mrs Dennis’ work that during the last Government he invited a Home Office representative to meet her in Colchester.
 

Tim Young, Colchester councillor responsible for community safety, and a member of the Safer Colchester Partnership, said: “Carole was an institution with her support for Neighbourhood Watch and community safety in general and it is a real shock and a real blow to people in Colchester.

"She put so much in. I will miss her and her contribution.”
 

The funeral will take place at St Leonard’s Church, Lexden, on Thursday July 11, at midday followed by a cremation at Colchester Crematorium at 1.15pm.