A FORMER police chief inspector for Bromsgrove and Droitwich Spa has died at the age of 70.

At the peak of his career with the force, Howard Radford was the deputy sub-divisional commander of Bromsgrove and Droitwich police.

He received many commendations for good police work and also served in Redditch, Evesham and at force headquarters in Hindlip Hall.

Mr Radford was born in Lincoln in 1934 and was educated at the King Edward VI Grammar School in Louth.

He worked for a family business before joining Lincoln city police in 1959 where he became a dog handler. In 1964 he won the national police dog trials with his Alsation called Lucky.

In 1966 he was promoted to sergeant and transferred to Worcester city police where he was instrumental in creating the force's dog section.

Following retirement the Moreland Road resident became staff manager at a number of county racecourses.

He was also a founder trustee of the North Worcestershire accident service and president of Bromsgrove Rotary Club. He was past worshipped master of the Lodge of Endeavour and an active member of the Bromsgrove chapter.

However, Mr Radford's son Glenn said one of his great loves was green bowls and he took great pride in winning his colours while bowling in Worcestershire.

He died last Wednesday, leaving behind wife Lyn, daughters Anita and Beverly, son Glenn and five grandchildren.

A funeral service will be held at St Peter's Church, Church Lane, Droitwich, tomorrow (Thursday) at noon.

Donations can be made to the North Worcestershire accident service through Crumps and Sons of Hanbury Road, Droitwich.

emily.bridgewater@midlands.

newsquest.co.uk