A “well liked and respected” former north-east police chief and cycling champion unexpectedly has died.
Peter Clark, former area commander for South Aberdeenshire under Grampian Police, died of a heart attack at the weekend.
Tributes have since flooded in for the 60-year-old, who went on to serve as the Scottish Cycling regional development officer for the north-east after retiring from the police.
Last night, Craig Smith, chief executive of Scottish Cycling, led the tributes to the long standing supporter.
He said: “I’m saddened and shocked to hear of the loss of our friend and colleague Peter Clark.
“His sudden death has touched all our hearts. Peter was a truly great individual who has inspired so many and will be sadly missed by his colleagues and our cycling community.
“Peter – your legacy will live on as you watch over us my friend. Thoughts and prayers go out to Peter’s family and friends at this difficult time. May memories give you strength and help you through the days ahead.”
The Aberdonian began his life on the force in 1976.
By 1988 he was promoted to sergeant, moving from CID to Aberdeen’s B division before making inspector in 1994.
In 1999, he was promoted to superintendent in command of the South Aberdeenshire sub-division – stretching from Huntly to Laurencekirk .
Ron Findlay, of the north-east branch of the National Association of Retired Police Officers (NARPO), paid tribute to his long serving colleague in the force.
He said: “He was a well-liked and well-respected police officer and our hearts go out to his family.
“He was very into his cycling and was still quite a young man. It’s heartbreaking to hear this.”
Mr Clark, who latterly lived in Broughty Ferry, Dundee, is survived by his wife Marjory and children Ross and Rhona.
