A police force has said its former officer who was murdered will be remembered as an “inspiration” in an emotional tribute.

Clive Porter, 63, from Tring, served as an officer in the Meriden and Garston area in the 80s during his near 30-year career with Hertfordshire Constabulary.

He was found with serious injuries on a towpath near the Grand Union Canal in Aylesbury on April 26 and died at the scene despite the efforts of emergency services.

Chief Constable Charlie Hall, from Hertfordshire Constabulary, said Mr Porter was a “hugely respected and well-liked member of the team” and was known for his “calm nature and devotion to his family”.

He said: “We were incredibly saddened to hear of the tragic passing of retired police officer Clive Porter and our thoughts are with his family at this devastating time as they try to process an unimaginable loss.

“Clive served as a Police Constable in Hertfordshire Constabulary for nearly 30 years, between 1979 and 2008.

“The majority of his service was spent in the borough of Dacorum, on the community team – now known as the Safer Neighbourhood Team – with periods also spent on the intervention team and the crime desk respectively.

“In the final years of his career he was stationed in Tring on the Herts/Bucks border, where he was a familiar face around the town. It is abundantly clear that Clive led a life devoted to helping others and was – and still is – held in high regard by the communities he served.”

Read more - Man charged over murder of former Watford police officer

Daniel Wisniewski, 34, of no fixed adobe, has been charged with Mr Porter’s murder and appeared at High Wycombe Magistrates' Court on Monday.

A woman, 41, who was previously arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender and perverting the course of justice has been released on bail.

Watford Observer: Police at the scenePolice at the scene

Chief Constable Hall said: “On Monday, thanks to the hard work of our colleagues in Thames Valley Police, a man was charged with Clive’s murder. We shall continue to support the investigation team in any way we can as the case progresses through the judicial system.

“Finally, we would like to publicly recognise Clive for his unwavering dedication to policing. He displayed all the qualities of a truly good police officer and he will be remembered as an inspiration to us all.

"Thank you, Clive.”

Readers have also paid tribute to Mr Porter following his death in an online book of condolence.

Helen Fensome said: “Heartbreaking to lose someone who had so much to give to others. May you rest in peace and justice be served.”

Kiran Gill said: “May his soul rest in peace, and the family find solace at this dark time. I can’t remember whether I met Mr Porter personally when I worked at the police station, but I have the highest regard for all officers and charity workers.”