THE wife of former policeman, writer and News Shopper columnist Harry Cole has paid tribute to him following his death.

Harry's Cole-den Oldies column, containing his weekly musings on events past and present, was a much-loved feature of News Shopper's Memories page.

Born in Bermondsey, Harry left school at 14 to become a cricket bat maker and went on to be a soldier and stonemason before finally joining the Met Police in 1952.

As a member of the force, Harry spent his entire 30-year career posted at the Carter Street police station in Walworth until he retired in 1983.

His wife Joan, 76, who lived with him at their Catford home, said: "He had a very good sense of humour.

"He walked the streets for 30 years."

Also a referee, cricketer and qualified football coach, Harry wrote 13 books, including nine memoirs about his time as a policeman.

In 1978 he was awarded the British Empire Medal for his voluntary work and in 2006 Southwark Council awarded him the honour of a blue plaque for his work in the community there.

Harry died at the age of 77 on April 17, following kidney failure.

His funeral was held on May 1 at Lewisham Crematorium in Verdant Lane, Hither Green.

Joan, his wife of 55 years, said: "Lots of police turned up to his funeral and a lot of friends paid tribute to him."

The family have set up the Harry Cole Tribute Fund to raise funds for Kidney Research UK.

To donate, visit justgiving.com/ harrycoletributefund