The family of a police officer shot dead while off duty in Clacton have described him as a hero.

Peter Reeve, 64, who was wanted for his murder, had run amok in a residential street in the seaside town and was later found dead in a churchyard near Chelmsford.

Pc Ian Dibell's family said in a statement: "The family are devastated by the news. We are immensely proud of Ian and the courage he showed.

"We take some comfort from his bravery.

"Policing was in his blood and Ian selflessly went to the aid of people in desperate need without fear or thought for his own safety. It was who he was, a hero.

"He has paid for the act in the most devastating way. He will be deeply missed and no words can describe the loss.

"He was very much loved by his family.

"We would like to thank Essex Police, friends and colleagues within the policing family and the public for their kind words and support."

Sir Hugh Orde, President of the Association of Chief Police Officers, said: "The courage he showed in stepping up to do his duty, without thought for his own safety, sums up what it means to be a police officer.

"The thoughts of everyone in the police family are with his colleagues, family and friends at this difficult time."

Essex Police Chief Constable Jim Barker-McCardle told a press conference at the force's Chelmsford headquarters that Pc Dibell was a "brave, respected and experienced neighbourhood officer".