Tributes paid after 'exceptional' officer loses battle with cancer

PC Nicky Smith died on Sunday 12 April at Chelmsford Farleigh Hospice, having retired from the force just 18 months earlier following 18 years of service with Essex Police. He began began his policing career with Suffolk Police, where he served for nine years.

A statement issued by the force said: “Much of Nicky’s time with Essex Police was spent as a response officer within Braintree district, before he later moved into a neighbourhood policing role, where he remained until his retirement in 2024.

“Nicky was an exceptional officer and a highly valued member of the Braintree district. He worked tirelessly within the Witham community and local schools, supporting vulnerable young people and helping to steer them away from criminality.

Alongside his policing career, Nicky was also a former professional footballer with Colchester United. He proudly represented the Essex Police football team and later went on to manage the England National Police football team. He was described as an example to his fellow officers and a true credit to Essex Police. He will be deeply missed by his team and colleagues across the force.”

Chief Constable Ben-Julian Harrington said: “Nicky served policing for 27 years with 18 here in Essex with us. He did that with professionalism, dedication and with a huge amount of compassion for his community, exemplifying all that’s good in policing.

“More than anything else, Nicky’s family remain in our thoughts. The impact of his work, particularly the care and compassion shown to vulnerable young people, will never be underestimated or forgotten. We are proud to have called Nicky one of ours.”