RETIRED police sergeant Colin Harrison has died, aged 63.

Mr Harrison, who lived in Barnard Castle but was born and brought up at Ferryhill, joined the police force as a cadet, straight from school, before spending three years in the RAF, the first two as part of his National Service.

During his time in the RAF he was stationed in Cyprus where he was awarded a General Service Medal.

He developed a great affection for the island and returned several times with his wife, Judith.

On leaving the RAF he returned to the police force, where he was posted to several parts of County Durham.

He spent 24 years in the force, 15 of those at Barnard Castle, reaching the rank of sergeant. He was later awarded a long-service medal.

He developed a great love for Barnard Castle, choosing to remain in the town upon retirement.

Mr Harrison was a long- standing member of the Buffs and attended the King Edward VIII Lodge, in Barnard Castle, where he was a former chairman of the entertainments committee.

Mr Harrison is survived by his wife Judith, sons Neil and Andrew, daughters-in-law Jill and Gillian, grandchildren Sam, Fay and Jamie, and sisters Audrey and Joan.

His funeral takes place today, at 2pm, at St Mary's Parish Church, Barnard Castle. The family has asked that any donations be given for coronary care ward 42 at Darlington Memorial Hospital.