Former West Mercia PCC Bill Longmore dies, aged 79
Former West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner Bill Longmore has died at the age of 79.
Mr Longmore, who left office in May 2016, died peacefully at his home near Shrewsbury on Thursday morning, following a long battle with cancer.
Current West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion said today: “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.
"As such I am sure his loss will be felt by many people.”
West Mercia Chief Constable Bangham said: "I was very sorry to hear that Bill had passed away and my thoughts go out to his wife and family at what will be a very difficult time.
"Bill served as a police officer with Staffordshire Police for 30 years where he reached the rank of Superintendent and used that valuable experience following retirement to serve the people of West Mercia as the first appointed Police and Crime Commissioner.
"What was always clear to me was his total commitment to serving the people to the very best of his ability and I know he will be sadly missed by many."
