Tributes paid to ‘loyal and devoted’ deceased officer

Devon and Cornwall Police has offered its sympathy and thoughts to the family of an officer who died while off duty. Police Constable Ray Byfield passed away at his home on January 4 following a “medical episode”. The 50-year-old first joined Avon and Somerset Constabulary in March 2004 before transferring to Devon and Cornwall Police four years later. In 2013, he became a neighbourhood beat manager for the town of Paignton. Inspector Mark Waldron said: “It is with deepest regret that the force has learned of the death of Ray. Our thoughts are with Ray’s family at this difficult time and his death is a very sad loss to his family and also the force. “Ray was a loyal officer who displayed devotion to duty. He was held in high regard by his colleagues and the local communities he served. “Our sympathy and thoughts go out to Ray’s family. He will be sadly missed by all of his friends and colleagues.”