HUNDREDS of police officers gathered for the funeral of “one of life’s decent blokes” – Sergeant Stephen Leese.

A guard of honour lined the path to St Mary's Church, in Victoria Avenue, Southend, as scores of officers paid tribute to the man who trained them.

The sudden death of Sgt Leese, 51, has left the force reeling after he collapsed at Garons Park Golf Club of a suspected heart attack.

He held many roles within Essex Police, but will be best remembered for training new recruits in Southend.

Chief Superintendent Keith Garnish said this would be his lasting legacy to the force and to the town.

He said: “Steve was an excellent role model for his students, being happiest working outside doing the work that was his vocation.”

He praised the sergeant for his exacting standards.

He added: “He was a leader in the true sense of the word. He rarely had to push people, they tended to follow him because they admired his personal commitment.”

During the service, Ch Supt Garnish read out a letter from a female offender whose life had been turned around by Sgt Leese’s efforts.

It read: “I have done very well on probation and it’s sorted out my life for the better, and it’s because of you that I’ve done that. I thank you and your constables for putting up with me and I’m so sorry for the hassle and pain I’ve caused you.”

She added: “It was the best thing that ever could have happened to me. It turned my life around. Thank you.”

Father Shaun Conlon said these messages were of great comfort to his family, who live in Shoebury.

He leaves behind wife Viv Leese, 53, children Mike, 27, and Vicky, 23, and month-old grandson Rory.

Father Conlon added: “He was not only one of life’s decent blokes, but he was one of the best.”