Royce Gardener MBE Tribute

During his 30 years of police service he was stationed in numerous valleys areas before being promoted to a detective constable at Blackwood. He received an MBE in 2004 for services to Gwent Police.

Paying tribute to Royce whose funeral took place today at St. Cadoc's Church, Gwent Police and Crime Commissioner Ian Johnston said:

"It's true to say that Royce was a coppers copper and all who ever had the pleasure of working with him will miss him greatly.

"I was lucky enough to serve during Royce's time with Gwent Police. Whilst I didnt work closely with him everyone in the Force and in the communities he served knew who he was, and his reputation as a hardworking and caring officer preceded him.

"He was the kind of officer who inspired others to do more and seek ways to improve the way they served the public. Even in retirement after 30 years of public service he continued to work hard, becoming Chairman of the Gwent branch of the National Association of Retired Police Officers and the and the Gwent Police Pensioners Association.

"It's a tribute to the man that he served these organisations with honour and distinction longer than he worked as a police officer.

"He was held in highest esteem and I and colleagues who knew him will miss him greatly."