POLICE chiefs have paid tribute to a Clacton officer ahead of the fifth anniversary of his murder.

PC Ian Dibell was shot and killed on July 9, 2012, after trying to stop gunman Peter Reeve, who had confronted and fired shots at a man in Clacton.

PC Dibell was off duty and at home at the time of the incident but heroically picked up his warrant card before attending the scene to put himself on duty.

Reeve later shot himself dead in a graveyard at Writtle near Chelmsford.

The Queen posthumously awarded PC Dibell the George Medal for gallantry.

He was the first police officer in the country to receive the award in 21 years and the first ever in Essex.

The Police Memorial Trust organised a service in Clacton in November 2015 where then Prime Minister David Cameron unveiled a memorial stone.

Clacton and Frinton Gazette:

  • David Cameron laying flowers at the memorial stone to PC Ian Dibell in 2015

Essex Chief Constable Stephen Kavanagh said: “Ian's heroic act of sacrifice to protect others from harm is something that can’t be summed up in words but makes me so proud to work alongside police officers like him.

"I cannot comprehend the heartache Ian’s family have been through but we will never forget the ultimate sacrifice Ian gave that day to help protect innocent lives.

"We feel the loss of heroes like Ian every day and it's absolutely vital that we remember them and tell the story of their bravery.

"Our thoughts are with Ian's family and friends as they remember his life."

Clacton and Frinton Gazette:

  • The memorial stone to PC Dibell on Clacton seafront 

PC Dibell's brother Paul is also a serving police officer.

Det Insp Dibell said: “Ian as my brother and colleague remains strong in my memories.

"The day never fades and it is like it was yesterday.

"In honouring him and all our other fallen colleagues, no greater tribute could be offered than being the very best that we can be - something he demonstrated on that fateful day.

"As my brother he is forever in my thoughts."

Clacton and Frinton Gazette:

  • Gunman Peter Reeve later shot himself dead

Essex police and crime commissioner Roger Hirst said: “Being a police officer is a special calling.

"It attracts some of the bravest people in our society who day after day put themselves in danger to protect the vulnerable and help make our communities safer.

"While I never met PC Ian Dibell I have heard from colleagues and friends across the force about the man he was and it is fitting that we remember him and the contribution he has made today.

"My thoughts are with Ian’s family, friends and colleagues.”