FAMILY and colleagues of a top police officer and father-of-two have paid tribute following his sudden and unexpected death. Hertsmere neighbourhood inspector Dave Rankin died of a suspected heart attack while at a Police Federation Conference in Swindon.

FAMILY and colleagues of a top police officer and father-of-two have paid tribute following his sudden and unexpected death.

Hertsmere neighbourhood inspector Dave Rankin died of a suspected heart attack while at a Police Federation Conference in Swindon. He was 47.

This week his family spoke about a loving family man they described as "our rock".

Insp Rankin became the Hertsmere neighbourhood inspector in 2001, having originally joined Hertfordshire Constabulary back in 1982.

A statement issued by wife Karen, daughters Rebecca, 13, and Sophie, 12, and parents Lillian and Bill read: "He loved his job; he was a real people person.

"He found his niche as a neighbourhood inspector and worked very hard at resolving residents' concerns and reassuring the community.

"He was heavily involved within Hertsmere communities and attended lots of public meetings. He was really happy and committed in his work and didn't want to do anything else."

A keen sportsman and mountain climber, Insp Rankin was a life-

long fan of Scottish Premier League football side Celtic, and could count climbing Ben Nevis as one of his achievements.

"Dave was fun, competitive and a real family man," his family said.

"He loved his daughters; they were the be all and end all of his life.

"He always put his family first, he had a big heart and was lots of fun.

"It will be very hard without him - he was our rock."

Pc Paul Reading, a ward constable in Potters Bar, said: "He was a fantastic guv'nor to work for, and always there if you needed him or his advice.

"He was very well respected throughout Hertsmere and everyone knew him. It's a tragic loss to the force, his family and friends. He was such a nice man."

Insp Rankin's funeral took place today (Wednesday).