A village was yesterday in mourning following the sudden death of its former policeman.

Tributes were paid to 39-year-old PC Kevin Hazell, who died while carrying out DIY work on his house at Pirie Road, West Bergholt, on Friday.

Paramedics received reports that the father-of-two had fallen from a ladder into a trench outside his home.

PC Hazell, who was an officer with the traffic unit at Stanway, was pronounced dead at the scene by a doctor.

Firefighters were called to shore up the sides of the trench after it began to collapse to give the paramedics safe access to Mr Hazell's body.

A neighbour, who had known Mr Hazell for ten years, paid tribute to him as a village policeman and a friend.

He said: "He was a very kind and understanding man. He was a credit to the police force because he dealt with matters in a very understanding, quiet and patient way."

He added Mr Hazell was very much a village policeman who was constantly on the beat, meeting and talking to villagers.

"He was an extremely popular man and well respected by all the people in the village," he added.

PC Hazell developed such an affection for the village he policed for years, he decided to settle there when he transferred to the traffic division.

The cause of death is as yet unknown. The coroner has been informed.

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