Cambridgeshire’s first PCC Sir Graham Bright has died after short illness

Sir Graham served as Cambridgeshire’s first PCC between 2012 and 2016.

In a statement, his family said: “It is with sadness that we announce the death of Sir Graham Bright. He died peacefully on January 19, 2024, aged 81, following a short illness, having been cared for at Addenbrooke’s Hospital and the Arthur Rank Hospice in Cambridge.

“We would like to thank all the dedicated doctors, nurses, healthcare assistants and other staff who looked after him during this time.

“During his political career which spanned over 50 years, from his time as a councillor to being a member of parliament and subsequently police and crime commissioner between 2012 and 2016, he was dedicated to public service and to making a difference to the lives of his constituents and those he worked with.”

Current PCC Darryl Preston led the tributes and said: “Sir Graham set the bar for how future commissioners would carry out the role, following their introduction in 2012. He was passionate about keeping people safe and introduced a number of innovative projects such as working with HMP Peterborough to help support people from reoffending and introducing a Police Cadets scheme to encourage young people into the profession.

“The partnerships he set up during his time in office remain to this day.

Sir Graham was the ultimate public servant. He will be sadly missed.”

Former chief constable, Alec Wood QPM, added: “Sir Graham was a dedicated and committed public servant.

“As PCC, he helped create the country’s first Victims’ Hub and his determination to help young people was evident in the creation of the Cambridgeshire’s Police Cadets scheme as well as through a number of initiatives to divert young people from crime.”

As Cambridgeshire’s first PC, Sir Graham brought with him his experience as an MP and a commitment to keeping Cambridgeshire safe, he took seriously the importance of listening to the public, promising to be the voice of the people as he took up office.

Launched in 2014, the Victims’ Hub (now the Victim and Witness Hub) delivers support to the victims of crime. It received national recognition and its pioneering approach was adopted by other areas across the country.

Sir Graham championed volunteering and supporting young people’s development. He set up the volunteer police cadet scheme which inspires young people to participate positively in their communities. This scheme has continued to grow.

Ensuring the financial stability of the constabulary was also a significant area of focus, overseeing significant transformation through the collaboration with other local police forces.

Sir Graham leaves behind his wife, Lady Valerie, and son, Rupert.