North West Leicestershire councillor Nick Rushton - leader of Leicestershire County Council - has issued a tribute following the sad news of the death of the county's former Chief Constable Simon Cole QPM.

Cllr Rushton said: "I'm terribly shocked and saddened to learn of this awful news.

"Simon was the youngest ever Chief Constable appointed for Leicestershire and Rutland, as well as the longest serving.

"We have lost an outstanding public servant whose mission in life was dedicated to making our communities stronger and safer.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with his Police colleagues and with his family at this sad time.

"I have ordered the County flag to be flown at half-mast as a tribute to the life of Simon Cole QPM."

Leicestershire Police announced the death this evening (Wednesday).

A spokesperson said: "Simon, who had served in policing for over 30 years, was found dead at his home address in Kibworth Harcourt, Leicestershire, this morning.

"This matter has been referred to the Coroner.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with all of Simon's family and friends at this difficult time."

Temporary Chief Constable Rob Nixon said: "It is hard to put into words how devastating this news is for the entire force who loved and respected Simon.

"Our hearts go out to his family at this difficult time and we will support them as much as we can.

"We want to respect their privacy and the Coroner's process and would ask that the public and media do so too.

"We are offering support to our staff and those who worked closely with Simon.

"I know Simon had a great impact on many of the communities of Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland and his death will be a great loss to many of the people he worked with.

"All we can do is pull together and mourn the loss of a greatly respected man."

A public book of condolence will be established in the coming days via the Leicestershire Police website.