SOUTH WALES Police have paid tribute today to a dedicated police constable who died suddenly, they said.

Rob Parry, aged 49, was based in the Hub at Cardiff Bay, but had previously worked in different police roles across the city.

He had been a police officer for seven years, and had worked as a PCSO and a Special Constable before that.

In a statement today South Wales Police said he died suddenly at home on Wednesday. His death is not being treated as suspicious.

Paying tribute, Chief Constable Jeremy Vaughan said: "I know Rob’s passing will come as a huge shock, and all at South Wales Police are devastated by the news. My sincere condolences go to Rob’s loved ones, especially his closest colleagues, friends, and – of course – his family.

"Rob had been an officer with us in South Wales Police since 2013, and a PCSO and a Special Constable before that. His dedication and compassion made him a well-respected and much-loved member of our police family.

"We will do all that we can to support Rob’s family at this extremely difficult time. Rest in peace Rob."

Constable Parry was lauded for his work as a PCSO in St Mellons, and for his dedication in leading a campaign which saw children, accompanied by officers, warn parents over illegal parking in 2011.