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Wales Online
Wales Online
National
Anna Lewis

Dedicated police worker who gave 35 years of service dies aged 53

A dedicated and "much-loved" member of South Wales Police has died aged 53.

Ian Hopkins joined the force in 1986 and served most recently as a station inquiry clerk in Bridgend.

Following his death on April 30 Mr Hopkins has been described as a "much-loved colleague of more than 35 years’ service and a friend to so many".

Colleagues in uniform lined the street to pay their respects ahead of his funeral on Thursday with his hearse led by a police motorcycle as a show of respect.

Mr Hopkins' funeral was held on Thursday (South Wales Police)

Speaking at the funeral service on Thursday afternoon the force's chief constable Jeremy Vaughan said: “Such was Ian’s unwavering guidance, support, and care for colleagues he was fondly referred to by many as their ‘work dad’.”

Chief constable Vaughan added: “Ian will be remembered for his wicked sense of humour as well as his ability to make anyone, regardless of age or background, feel welcomed and supported.”

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