The Bishop and Dean of Leicester have both paid tribute to former Leicestershire Police Chief Constable Simon Cole who has died suddenly.
The Rt Revd Martyn Snow, Bishop of Leicester, said: "I'm deeply saddened by this tragic news. My prayers are for Simon's family, friends and former work colleagues. He served this county with great distinction and will be sadly missed by so many."
Dean of Leicester, the Very Revd David Monteith, said: "I join with all the Cathedral community in offering our condolences and prayers at this time to Jo and the family. Simon was a very familiar presence in the Cathedral for so many events and special services from the annual Police Carols to Royal Visits to public discussions about safety or race or homelessness. He was also such good company, full of wisdom and care for his team, for our wider community and for us. When I was unwell in 2019, he reached out in concern for me. We learnt so much from him as a respected and selfless public servant whom we could but try to emulate. May he rest in peace and rise in glory."