THE funeral of a policeman who served the public for more than 30 years will be held next Friday.

Superintendent John Tyrrell, who spent most of his career as a dog handler, moved to the region from Surrey in 1977.

He transferred to Durham Constabulary as a chief inspector with the dogs and mounted section. In 1984, he began a three-year stint covering Chester-le-Street and Derwentside.

In 1987, he was promoted to superintendent, becoming sub-divisional commander for Derwentside.

He took on the same role in the Sedgefield sub-division in June 1989, where he served until April 1992.

He then took over an administrative role at headquarters until his retirement in September 1992.

In 1970, he was commended by the chief constable of Surrey. He received the police long service and good conduct medal in 1984 after 22 years.

In his retirement, he was a keen dog walker, award-winning photographer and climbed Mount Kilimanjaro.

His partner, Deirdre, died before Christmas. He leaves a daughter, Julie Donaghue, and son Gavin.

Mrs Donaghue said: "He was a family man and a dedicated police officer.

"He did not take any nonsense off anybody and got the job done. He was well respected for that." The service is at 11.15am, on Friday, at St Cuthbert's Church, in North Road, Durham.