Dorset Police have confirmed the death of a serving police officer.

The officer - who has not been named at this stage - died at his home in Bournemouth on Monday 30 March 2020.

He was 56 years old.

National Chair of the Police Federation of England and Wales John Apter said: “This is devastating news and I send heartfelt condolences to the officer’s family, friends and colleagues at this most difficult of times. Policing is a family – and never more so than now as we selflessly work to help communities against this pandemic – so I know this tragic and untimely death will be deeply felt by many from within policing and beyond. “

Anna Harvey, Chair of Dorset Police Federation, said: "This is devastating news. The thoughts of Dorset Police officers are with our colleague's family, friends and loved ones and close colleagues at this terrible time.”

“Our colleague was a popular, well-respected custody sergeant - one of the most difficult and challenging police roles. But it was one he was expert in and he had the respect of his colleagues."

“We are there to look out for our colleagues who will be mourning this terrible news. And those family and loved ones he has left behind. We ask that their privacy is respected."

The force said the officer had been unwell since Christmas with a chest infection. He had been off sick since Thursday 19 March and went into self-isolation following COVID-19 guidance from the NHS after displaying symptoms.

Chief Constable James Vaughan said: “It is not yet confirmed if the death is COVID-19-related and I would strongly emphasise that it is too early to speculate on the circumstances surrounding his death.

“We are all deeply saddened by the death. This is a huge loss to the police family and my thoughts and prayers are with the officer’s family, friends and close friends, many of whom are Dorset Police colleagues. I have relayed to them my deepest condolences.

“I would ask you to please respect their privacy at this very sad time.”