Police Sergeant Ian Jones, a member of West Mercia Police’s Dog Section, died on Wednesday 2nd March.

His wife Carol, speaking on behalf of the family, said her husband would be ‘loved forever’.

“Ian will forever be remembered for his sharp wit, one liners and constant willingness to tell a joke, regardless of whether it made sense. Nobody could tell them like he could,” she said.

“Among the many messages in cards we received, Ian has been described as funny, up for a laugh, a team player, helpful, genuine and sincere and, quite simply, a fantastic man.

“We will look back on the times we laughed with him, the moments we shared and smile, knowing we all played a role in this man’s fantastic life and he in ours.”

Sergeant and Mrs Jones had five children between them; Sam, Mark, Hannah, Jodie and Zoe and two grandchildren; Jack and Daisy.

He began his working career in mechanical engineering, followed by a brief career in industrial driving before joining the Metropolitan Police in 1982.

There followed a passionate career in law enforcement, with him transferring to West Mercia Police in 1986. He first served in Worcester, then in Highley, before being promoted to the rank of sergeant in 1991 and being posted to Telford and Bridgnorth.

When he joined the dog section in 2002, Mrs Jones said her husband found a “partnership” that suited him perfectly.

“He loved his dogs, including his pet border collie Molly. During this time Ian served at Much Wenlock and then at Hindlip Hall,” she added.

“As well as a love for his job, he also loved the people he worked alongside throughout his career, considering his colleagues to be his friends.”

Sgt Jones’ two police dogs – Dig, a general purpose dog who retired some years ago but stayed with the family and Bertie, a drugs dog who Ian helped train from a puppy – were both in attendance at the funeral.

Outside work, Sergeant Jones was a keen sportsman, having played hockey for Bridgnorth first team and also representing West Mercia Police at the sport. He also enjoyed tennis, squash, running and cycling.

He was a keen collector of model police cars, Judge Dredd comics and books from his favourite comedians, including Tommy Cooper and Spike Milligan. He was also an avid follower of Montreal Canadiens(CORR) ice hockey team and Liverpool Football Club.

Inspector Andy Milne, who leads the Dog Section, also paid tribute to his colleague, who he had known for a number of years.

“The Dog Section is having to come to terms with the loss of a close member of the team,” he said.

“Ian was an experienced and valued colleague. While he was utterly professional, his fantastic sense of humour was also appreciated and helped bring the team together.

“He will be missed terribly and our thoughts are with his family.”

Deputy Chief Constable David Shaw also added his tribute on behalf of the force.

“Ian joined West Mercia Police from the Metropolitan Police in August 1986 and had been with the Dog Section since 2002,” he said.

“He was a well-respected and much-loved member of the force and will be sadly missed by all his colleagues and friends.

“Our thoughts and prayers and those of the Chief Constable and the Police Authority are with Ian’s family and his colleagues at this very difficult time.”