Former crime commissioner dies

Bill Longmore, who was 79 and lived in Hanwood near Shrewsbury, has been described as "committed to making life better for the community around him".

The former policeman, who served with Staffordshire Police for 30 years, died at the home he shared with his wife Ursula on Thursday morning.

Mr Longmore, was elected the West Mercia's first Police and Crime Commissioner in 2012 and held the post until 2016.

His successor John Campion paid tribute to his predecessor's work.

He said: “I was very sad to hear of Bill’s passing. My thoughts are naturally with his wife, and extended family and friends at this time.

“Bill dedicated much of his life to serving the public, both as a police officer, and as West Mercia’s first Police and Crime Commissioner, but I am aware that his commitment to helping local communities extended well beyond that.

"Through his involvement in sport, business and other local groups Bill made a lot of friends and helped a lot of people. The energy Bill brought to the PCC role, particularly through the challenges he faced, was admirable and showed just how committed he was to making life better for the community around him.”

Barrie Sheldon was Mr Longmore's deputy during his tenure as commissioner.

He said: "He was an enigma. He was always coming up with ideas. He was devoted to life in the community and to people. He was a visionary, passionate and enthusiastic about all he did. During my time with him, we attended many events and he came across as all heart. He was very honest and was a man of the people. He has left a very strong legacy."

A keen bowler, Mr Longmore was committed to his local community and bought the local pub, The Cock Inn, for the village after the landlord pulled his final pint.

Months of renovation to the pub and its adjoining bowling green saw the building saved for the community.

Phil Talbot, treasurer of Hanwood Bowling Team said: "Bill worked incessantly behind the scenes to promote the game to new people of all ages in a time when attracting people to the game is getting increasingly difficult.

"Bill loved his bowls, and although playing was restricted due to his health in the last few years, he loved nothing more than wandering down to watch the first team on a Friday night or the pensioners on a Thursday afternoon. For him it was a key focus for the community, and community for him was a very important matter. Bill achieved much in his life as he actually did things as opposed to talking about doing things, and not many people can do that.

"He certainly leaves a legacy that reflects his love of the local community and, from a bowling perspective, I along with many others are extremely grateful for all that he had done."