Drowned police inspector 'loyal'

Insp Neil Munro leaves his wife, Mel and their young son, Jack

The wife of Dorset police inspector who drowned in an expensive seaside peninsula has paid tribute to a "devoted, loyal and proud family man".

Insp Neil Munro's body washed ashore in Sandbanks, Poole, on Thursday morning. Police said there was nothing to indicate any suspicious circumstances.

Brittany Ferries confirmed a foot passenger of the same name boarded one of their ferries on Wednesday night.

Mel Munro said she was "devastated" by her 43-year-old husband's death.

Insp Munro's body was discovered, reportedly by a gardener, on the beach near the junction of Panorama Road.

Neil was extremely committed and proud to be a police officer in Dorset Mel Munro

He had been off duty, police said.

Insp Munro leaves his wife and their 21-month-old son, Jack.

In a statement, Mrs Munro described her husband as "one of life's good guys who had so many wonderful qualities that made him who he was".

"Neil always strove to do his best for his family.

Insp Munro received a Chief Constable's commendation

"In his career, he was extremely committed and proud to be a police officer in Dorset, including his work for the community.

"Neil will be greatly missed by all those who loved, cared and knew him but he will never be forgotten."

Insp Munro had served with Dorset Police for 20 years - making a huge impact on policing in Bournemouth and across the county, a police spokesman said.

An inquest into his death has been opened and adjourned.