Top police chief found dead 12 days after retiring from 'job he loved'

One of Britain's top police officers who was found dead just 12 days after retiring had been "missing the job he loved", friends have said.

Former Leicestershire Police boss Simon Cole, 55, was discovered at his home on Wednesday.

He had only just recently announced his retirement from the force where he worked for more than 30 years and had been the UK’s longest-serving chief constable.

The force has not yet given the married dad-of-two's cause of death but confirmed the case had been referred to the coroner.

On Thursday, residents living in the village revealed "pillar of the community" Cole had been "missing the job" he had "dedicated most of his life to".

Cole 'a pillar of the community'

One villager, who did not want to be named, said: "It is dreadfully sad as he was a pillar of the community and did so much for policing across the county.

They said Cole had dedicated his life to his career despite the stress

Another resident added: "We don't know exactly what's gone on but it a deep shock to everyone around here because he was well-known and well-liked.

"He had a great sense of humour and did so much for the community here. He is going to be greatly missed — as a person and a copper."

Cole took charge of Leicestershire Police 12 years ago in 2010 after first becoming an officer in 1988, making him one of Britain's youngest chief constables at 43.

Tributes flooded for a "greatly respected man" whose "commitment to public service has been unswerving" after his death was announced.

Temporary Chief Constable Rob Nixon said: “It is hard to put into words how devastating this news is for the entire force who loved and respected Simon.

“Our hearts go out to his family at this difficult time and we will support them as much as we can

Rupert Matthews, police and crime commissioner for Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland added: “I am shocked and extremely saddened to hear this tragic news.

“Simon Cole was the epitome of a great Chief Constable whose commitment to public service has been unswerving.

'A safer place' under his leadership

“We live in a safer place thanks to his leadership."

Home secretary Priti Patel paid tribute on Twitter and wrote: "I am desperately saddened to hear about the passing of former Chief Constable Simon Cole QPM.

"He was passionate about delivering for the people of Leicestershire, the area where he grew up, and dedicated his life to policing.

Bidding farewell to the job Cole said the force were in “in good shape financially and operationally" and described his time serving "as a great honour."

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He said: “It has been a great honour to lead Leicestershire Police since 2010 and serve the communities in which I grew up."

He added: "I have been happiest when I’ve seen how the force has delivered good service to the public and built trust in neighbourhoods and communities - whether it’s been safeguarding young people, tackling complex investigations, bringing county lines gangs and domestic abusers to justice, or just having a chat over a samosa or a pork pie at a local event."

Samaritans (116 123) operates a 24-hour service available every day of the year. If you prefer to write down how you’re feeling, or if you’re worried about being overheard on the phone, you can email Samaritans at jo@samaritans.org.