Force pays its respects to `gentleman` officer and last chairman of Cumbria Police Authority

Tributes have been paid following the death of an “exceptional” retired officer who helped usher in the new order to securing effective and efficient policing. Ex-Inspector Ray Cole, who died on Sunday morning (April 9), was the last chairman of Cumbria Police Authority (CPA) prior to its abolition. Former colleagues spoke of the sadness at losing a “true gentleman” – an officer who gave 32 years service to Cumbria Constabulary before taking up the reins of the old CPA and was at the helm when it handed over power to the new police and crime commissioners (PCCs) in 2012. Mr Cole joined the Cumbria force in November 1964, based in the south of the county as a police constable on traffic at Ulverston. He retired as the Inspector for Millom in February 1996. The tributes were led by Chief Constable Jerry Graham who said: “All those who had the privilege of working alongside Ray and who received his wise counsel will remember him fondly as a man of great integrity and a true gentleman. “He was a great supporter and friend to Cumbria Constabulary and he will be missed dearly. Our thoughts go out to his wife and family at this difficult time.” Mr Cole joined the police authority in June 2005 and became chairman in June 2010, playing a pivotal role in overseeing policing in the county before the introduction of PCCs. Cumbria’s PCC, Peter McCall, said: “I’m truly saddened to hear of Ray’s death. As the former distinguished chairman of Cumbria Police Authority and an exceptional police officer, as well as in his councillor roles, Ray was a dedicated public servant.” “Ray made a significant contribution to Cumbria Police Authority, and especially during his chairmanship when Cumbria Constabulary faced many difficult challenges. “He is a man of integrity, who gave so much to Cumbria and will be sadly missed, and my thoughts and condolences are with his family.” Not just a pillar of the policing community, Mr Cole was also well known for having a huge input in local politics. He represented the Newtown ward on Copeland Borough Council from 2003 until 2011, and was re-elected in May 2015. He also served his community on the same ward for Millom Town Council. Millom mayor, Councillor Doug Wilson, said: “He was the type of councillor that we all aspire to. He was a very fair man. “He was always a big help and guidance with words of advice. He kept me on the straight and narrow many times.” Also among Mr Cole’s contributions to his community was his role serving as being a director of South Copeland Tourism.