A POLICE inspector has retired after more than 30 years.

Insp Paul Fieldsend covered the Tendring rural area, which included Brightlingsea, Frinton and Thorpe.

He joined Essex Police in 1979, and was posted in Clacton before serving as a traffic officer in Thorpe.

He took on the role of sergeant at Harwich in 1986, before serving in Colchester and at police headquarters in Chelmsford. He returned to Tendring in 1993.

“The most memorable part of my service was the miners’ strike, while the saddest job was the investigation around the death of Bill Bishop,” said Insp Fieldsend.

Bill Bishop was a former constable based at Walton police station, who was killed after being shot by an armed robber in Frinton in 1984.

He said: “The technology we use has changed considerably since I joined. The modern radios are fantastic, and mean that I can get in touch with any officer, no matter where they are. Years ago, the old radios meant you were very much on your own sometimes.

“However, I don’t think the role of a police officer has changed at all. We are still the first port of call whenever something happens.”

He added he would miss colleagues and that his current post has been a pleasant way to end his service.

“I’ve been policing the area where I live so people have come to know me and will talk to me – that’s the bonus of neighbourhood policing.

“I plan to relax, do a bit more sailing and see what’s round the corner.”

Chief Supt Tim Newcomb, eastern division commander, praised Insp Fieldsend for his dedication to the force. “Paul has been a really good servant to the local community. He will be greatly missed by many. I count myself in that group – we wish him the very best.”