A police inspector with Essex Police has died unexpectedly while on duty.

Inspector Mark Estall of the Force Support Unit was on duty at the Boreham operational base when he was taken ill and despite the best efforts of his colleagues and those of the ambulance and air ambulance personnel who attended, he sadly died. The 45-year-old officer had served with the force for nearly 27 years.


Chief Supt Rachel Nolan, head of Operational Policing Command based at Boreham, said: "Essex Police has lost one of our great officers. Always professional, invariably cheerful and a highly skilled member of the force.

"Our thoughts are with his family, friends and colleagues at this difficult time.”

Chair of the Essex Police Federation Steve Taylor said: "The people of Essex have lost a dedicated servant and his colleagues have lost a good bloke."

Flags around the force were flown at half-mast on Friday, January 6, as a mark of respect and police officers took to social media to share the same image of a thin blue line in a united tribute to their colleague.

Traffic officer Sgt Colin Shead took to twitter to pay tribute and said: "Lost for words and heartbroken this evening. My friend and colleague of almost 27 years has left us. So many happy memories. RIP mate."

Rev Edd Stock of Southend Police said: "Remembering  Insp Mark Estall who died whilst in active service. Praying for his family, friends and colleagues."

Insp Estall previously hit the headlines in October 2015 when he was given a special commendation from Chief Constable Steven Kavanagh for his work in a joint operation targeting an organised crime network in Essex.

Chief Constable Kavanagh said: "We have lost a brave and dedicated colleague. I've spoken throughout the day with those grieving the loss of a friend and comrade.

"I'll join teams in Boreham in a memorial service and the prayers of all at Essex Police are with his family and friends. RIP"

The Police Role of Honours, a national charity that pays tribute to officers who are killed or die on duty, took to Facebook and said: "Our thoughts are with his family, friends and colleagues at this difficult time.

"We will ensure that Mark is forever remembered in the UK Police Roll of Honour."