A former police officer who served Essex for 18 years has died following a battle with cancer.
PC Nicky Smith, who worked with Essex Police after he began his career with Suffolk Police 27 years ago, died on April 12 at Farleigh Hospice in Chelmsford.
Much of his time with Essex Police was spent as a response officer within Braintree district, before he later moved into a neighbourhood policing role, where he remained until his retirement in 2024.
Ben-Julian Harrington, Chief Constable of Essex Police, paid tribute to PC Smith’s long service and impact.
Chief Constable Harrington said: "Nicky served policing for 27 years with 18 here in Essex with us.
"He did that with professionalism, dedication and with a huge amount of compassion for his community, exemplifying all that’s good in policing.
"More than anything else, Nicky’s family remain in our thoughts.
"The impact of his work, particularly the care and compassion shown to vulnerable young people, will never be underestimated or forgotten.
"We are proud to have called Nicky one of ours."
PC Smith was known for his work in the Witham community, supporting vulnerable young people and working closely with schools in the area.
He was also a footballer who started at Southend in the mid-1980s before moving to Colchester in 1990. He enjoyed an illustrious career across many Essex football clubs, including Braintree Town, Maldon Town and Witham Town.
He also played for and managed AFC Sudbury on the Essex-Suffolk border and was a Police Operational Football Officer.
He managed the England National Police football team and represented Essex Police on the pitch.
He was described as an exceptional officer who will be deeply missed by colleagues across the force.
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