TRIBUTES have been paid to a former police chief inspector.

Walter Millward, 84, who served with North Wales Police for 30 years, died on Monday at Glan Clwyd Hospital.

He had suffered a long battle with Parkinson’s disease which saw him spend his last few years at Coed Duon nursing home in Holywell.

Yesterday his family described Mr Millward, a founding member and former president of Flint and District Lions Club, as a “good dad” who will be deeply missed for his “bubbly” personality.

Mr Millward was born in Buckley and was one of six children and leaves his only brother Ronnie.

Mr Millward’s son Dennis, said his father married the love of his life Marion and had three children, himself and his sisters Valerie and Pamela.

Dennis said: “He began his working life at Llay colliery and was awarded a Bevin Boy medal for his time spent in the mines during the Second World War.

“He joined North Wales police force as a constable at Prestatyn in 1948 and worked his way up the ranks to chief inspector and was the local officer in charge of Prince Charles’ visit to Deeside during his investiture.

“He was a popular figure at the courts in Mold, Flint and Prestatyn where he worked as a prosecuting officer.”

On retiring from the police Mr Millward, who also had eight grandchildren, worked at DeCordovas Solicitors in Shotton.

Dennis added: “Dad was always a larger than life character both in the police force, in his legal work and in his charity work for the Lions.

“He could be seen out and about at every Lions charity function, especially at Christmas when he was always Father Christmas.

“On the tours of the old folks’ homes, dad was a special favourite with the ladies and was able to make a great fuss of all the residents as he knew just about everyone by name.”

Dennis’s wife, Jean, added: “He was such a big character and was still so well respected in the community. We’ll miss him.”