TRIBUTES have been paid to an East Anglian police officer who was killed after a road crash in Norfolk.Norfolk Chief Constable Andy Hayman said Pc Bernie Brown would be sadly missed by his friends, colleagues and the local community.

TRIBUTES have been paid to an East Anglian police officer who was killed after a road crash in Norfolk.

Norfolk Chief Constable Andy Hayman said Pc Bernie Brown would be sadly missed by his friends, colleagues and the local community.

"Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to his wife Linda and their three children Paul, Nichola and Thomas," he said.

Mr Brown joined Norfolk Constabulary as a cadet aged 16. He served his whole police service in Norfolk, the last 15 years as a local beat officer in Swaffham.

Mr Hayman added: "He was indeed known as Mr Swaffham. I think that is a testament of his commitment, his hard work and enthusiasm to serving a community he loved and grew up in.

"His involvement in the community extended beyond the police service. He was a keen sportsman; he was a member of the local cricket team."

Jim Wilson, Chairman of Norfolk Police Authority, added: "When a tragic incident like this happens it impacts on colleagues right across the Force. Bernie was well respected. His Chief Inspector has described him as a classic, good, all-round officer. He was committed to his community and to his county."

Mr Brown, 47, was injured following the crash shortly after 2am, on Friday . He was driving from Dereham to Swaffham Police Station on the A47 Scarning straight when, for reasons which are still unknown, the vehicle left the road. The police car was not responding to a call at the time.

He died from his injuries on Saturday, September 6 at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital. His passenger, Pc Jim Wells, 30, escaped unhurt. The investigation into the cause of the crash continues.

The officer leaves his wife Linda, and his children Paul 26, Nichola, 24, and Thomas 15.

They released the following short statement yesterday.

It read: "Linda Brown and her family wish to thank the police and hospital staff for all their help and support through this difficult time."

Anyone who may have witnessed the collision should contact Insp Paul Rush on 01953 424242.