A RESPECTED chief inspector who served a 30-year career with the police has been described as a “wonderful character” by his loving family after he died in a crash.

Andrew Down, 69, was struck by a lorry while riding his bicycle in Trimley St Martin, Suffolk, last Thursday.

He was flown to Addenbrooke’s Hospital by air ambulance, but despite the best efforts of medics he died on Saturday.

Mr Down served with Essex Police for 30 years, beginning as a cadet at Hendon, spending 24 years as a detective in the Southend area, before retiring as a chief inspector in Colchester.

His loving family described him as an inspiration to all who knew him.

They said: “He had a passion for life like no other, he was the fittest 69-year-old grandad you are likely to have met, cycling through the villages and coastline surrounding Felixstowe.

“This wonderful, loud, gregarious character continued to support people and work within his community after he retired.”

Mr Down, from Felixstowe, was heavily involved with the Duke of Edinburgh’s award, taking youngsters on camping expeditions.

In his younger days he was an excellent long-distance runner, completing marathons and running with a team from John o’ Groats to Land’s End to raise money for Children in Need.

Mr Down spent the past ten years climbing mountains as far away as New Zealand and Argentina.

He ran a rambling group, organised walking weekends and volunteered to mentor young people in Felixstowe coming out of the care system.

His family added: “He was an inspiration to all those that knew and loved him, his final act of generosity was the gift of life to others having registered as an organ donor.

“His loving partner and family couldn’t have been prouder to ensure these wishes were met.”

Anyone with information about the crash, which took place on Kirton Road at 10.45am, at the roundabout with the junction of the A14 eastbound off-slip, should call 101 quoting reference CAD 98 of November 26.