Tributes paid to 'capable and loyal' Yorkshire police inspector who dies after testing positive for Covid-19

Inspector Paul McNamara, of the Ministry Defence Police, died on Wednesday, January 27.

He was 52 and leaves behind his partner and their 12-year-old son.

Inspector McNamara joined the Ministry Defence Police from the RAF Police in August 2001.

He served at a number of stations during his career including Burghfield in West Berkshire, Easington in East Yorkshire and most recently Menwith Hill in Harrogate, North Yorkshire.

A Ministry Defence Police Federation spokesman said: "It is with deep regret and sadness that we notify our members of the loss of our colleague Paul McNamara who lost his battle with Covid on 27th January.

"Paul was 52 and joined the Ministry Defence Police from the RAF Police in August 2001.

"Paul served at a number of stations including Burghfield, Fraud Squad, Stafford, Easington and finally Menwith Hill, where he moved on promotion to Inspector.

"Paul is survived by his loving partner Wendy and 12-year-old son Alex.

Friends and colleagues of Inspector McNamara have paid tribute to him on social media.

A former colleague said: "It is extremely sad to hear this news. A lovely man with a great sense of humour. He was very capable and loyal officer. It was a pleasure to have known and worked with him. My condolences to his family, friends and colleagues."

Another officer who worked alongside Inspector McNamara said: "I was fortunate to have had Paul as my Sergeant upon joining as a new recruit and then as an Inspector. He was one of the good ones and was always there for us with guidance and support no matter what. He will be genuinely missed."

A friend who worked alongside the inspector 30 years ago added: "I still can't believe that you're gone Paul, taken far too soon. I remember the early nineties at RAF Wyton, you were a fun bloke then and a true character and friend. Reading all these tributes shows that 30 years down the line, you haven't changed, still a top bloke who will be sorely missed by all that knew you. Rest easy Paul."