A MOVING tribute has been issued by Essex Police following the death of their much loved and respected colleague.

PC Ian Dibell, 41, was shot dead in Clacton after he intervened while off-duty to save the life of a member of the public and protect the community.

Chief Constable Jim Barker-McCardle said: “I have visited Pc Ian Dibell's family and loved ones to personally offer them my condolences and express the support of everyone at Essex Police during this very difficult time.

“Since Ian's murder, we have heard from fellow officers and staff how loved and respected our fallen colleague was.

“He was personable, charming, always immaculately dressed, and very popular.

“Ian was a very experienced and highly regarded neighbourhood policing officer well known in the Clacton community that he had served since 2009.

“Ian was an extraordinary man doing an extraordinary job."

See the full story in Thursday's Gazette.