Tributes paid on anniversary of Police and Crime Commissioner Bob Jones' death

Bob Jones, a former Wolverhampton councillor, passed away in his sleep on July 1 last year.

David Jamieson, who replaced him as commissioner following a by-election, said: "Bob was a brilliant public servant and is sorely missed. He was a man of the people who inspired warmth and affection in all he met.

"His death was a huge loss to the police family. Bob Jones was respected across the political spectrum for his service and huge contribution to policing."

Deputy West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner Yvonne Mosquito said: "Bob was a dear friend and an excellent public servant. His commitment to policing and helping those in need was remarkable.

"He wasn't just a friend but a mentor as well. One of things that made Bob one of a kind was how generous he was with his time. No task was too large, complex or difficult. He was a man of great principles, but crucially a great listener too. He never lost touch with the people he sought to serve."

Mr Jones was born in Wolverhampton and lived his entire life in the city, apart from while studying in Nottingham for a degree in public administration.

He was a Labour councillor from 1980 to 2013 for Blakenhall in Wolverhampton, serving at one point as cabinet member for leisure and community safety and on various scrutiny boards.

He held responsibilities as chairman of education, finance and youth committees and chaired the Wolverhampton Community Safety Partnership.

He was previously a member of West Midlands Police Authority from 1986 to 2012, and chaired the authority from 1995-2000.

The authority was scrapped by the creation of the PCC role - a job Mr Jones believed should not exist, but ran for it because he believed his experience gave him the best chance of making it work.

In 2010 Mr Jones was awarded the CBE for 'services to policing'.

In his spare time he was also a passionate supporter of the Campaign for Real Ale.