TRIBUTES have been paid to a Merseyside police officer who lost his life "whilst doing the job he loved" on the 40th anniversary of the tragedy.

Constable Ray Davenport, who lived in Sutton, near Ellesmere Port, died on July 4 1981, the day after he had tried to stop a stolen car in Liverpool city centre.

He was dragged along the street by his arm after reaching in through the driver’s window to try and take the car keys.

The two men in the car were arrested by his colleagues and later convicted of manslaughter with each being sentenced to nine years in prison.

Constable Davenport was 35 years-old at the time of the tragedy.

His daughter, Jayne Clemson - who followed in her father’s footsteps by joining Merseyside Police and later transferred to North Wales Police - said: "My dad lost his life whilst doing the job he loved – he loved being a Merseyside Officer having transferred from Cheshire.

"I recall him going on duty that night but sadly he never returned home. I always will remember my dad as a caring loving person.

"I still receive comments to this day from colleagues who worked with him telling me what a fantastic officer he was, that he was someone you could always depend on to be there, and someone who just wanted to help the community, looking after the good people.

"He will be forever in my thoughts."

Constable Davenport was posthumously awarded the Queens Commendation for Brave Conduct and he is also remembered on the National Police Memorial in London.

Merseyside's Chief Constable Serena Kennedy, said: "40 years ago Constable Davenport lost his life doing the job he loved and he will not be forgotten here at Merseyside Police.

"It's really important that we continue to remember those officers and staff who paraded for a tour of duty to serve their communities and never returned.

"They pay the ultimate sacrifice to keep our communities safe and should never been forgotten and our thoughts are with Ray’s wife, Joy, and his daughter Jayne.

"I am delighted to be able to confirm today that there will be a memorial garden at the new HQ to remember and honour those officers and staff who have lost their lives on duty."