Tributes paid to former Eastbourne police officer

David Smith, who retired as a crime prevention officer with Sussex Police in 2008, died at Eastbourne DGH after a short illness. He was 77.

London-born Mr Smith, who had two older brothers, worked as a gardener and later for an electrical company before moving to Bexhill, then Eastbourne and later settling in Polegate with his second wife Christine. He had three daughters Elaine, Victoria and Rebecca.

He joined Sussex Police in 1966 and the family moved to Lower Willingdon.

During his career in the Force, Mr Smith worked as a uniformed officer and a detective in CID.

When the Arndale Centre opened in 1981 he joined the crime prevention department for a three- month attachment and ended up staying there for 27 years.

Colleagues said he was a very dedicated officer who enjoyed his work and made friends for life in his colleagues.

Former Eastbourne CID boss Kevin Moore said he was saddened by the news of Mr Smith’s death and described him as a professional and well-respected officer.

His widow Christine said, “David was the most friendly, kindest man anyone would wish to meet. He was a very popular resident of Lower Willingdon. David was well liked by all who knew him.

“David doted on his family and loved being surrounded by his children and four grandchildren.

“He was there for all of them. He was a dearly cherished, husband, father and grandad and will be sorely missed.”

Mrs Smith said after her husband retired in 2008 he spent much of his time in the garden and gave much of the vegetable produce he grew away to neighbours.

During his retirement he also took an interest in classic cars and bought an old Morris Traveller, which he restored. Mr Smith’s funeral is on Wednesday January 13 at Wealden Crematorium in Horam at 2pm.