Heartbreaking tributes paid to ‘one of life’s nice guys’ Brit police detective who died on holiday in Greece

NewsUK News A BRIT police detective has died on a holiday in Greece as tributes flood in for “one of life’s nice guys”. Neil Hayes died on July 12 after a 24-year career in the police force. No further detail about Neil’s death is available at this time. The detective joined Durham Constabulary in 2002 before moving to South Yorkshire Police in 2006. Sign up for The Sun newsletter Thank you! After 14 years he relocated to Norfolk police and worked as a detective constable in the force’s child abuse investigation unit in 2020. In February 2022 Neil started working with the Norfolk and Suffolk Major Investigation Team. Chris Hobbs, Secretary of Norfolk Police Federation, said: “Neil was well liked and one of life’s genuinely nice guys. “He was a great communicator and respected Detective. “All at Norfolk Police Federation offer Neil’s family our support and condolences. “We are supporting them as best as we can.” Most read in The Sun Steve Kent, Chair of South Yorkshire Police Federation, paid tribute: “We are so very saddened to hear of Neil’s death. “Neil was a very popular person in South Yorkshire Police and the word I keep hearing people say was that he was a ‘Gentleman’, I think that sums him up perfectly. “I had the pleasure of socialising with him on a number of occasions and he was always so warm, kind and genuine, it was an absolute pleasure to be in his company. “He had such a passion for his interests – particularly his love for history and his beloved Sheffield Wednesday. “You will be so sorely missed Neil. “All of our thoughts and best wishes to Claire and Neil’s wider family and friends.” Many of Neil’s friends and colleagues have also paid tribute on social media. One said: “Such a character and genuine person to work alongside. He is missed greatly in the office and our thoughts are with his wife.” Another added: “Thoughts with Claire and his family and friends. I’ve had the recent pleasure of working with this kind man, and we miss him terribly. He was thoughtful and a gentleman. “We keep expecting him to walk back though the door. We miss your rubbish jokes, your love of fine dining and hearing of your holiday plans. Rest in peace Neil.”