Tributes paid to police authority chief executive

The chief executive of Thames Valley Police Authority, Jim Booth, died unexpectedly on Sunday aged 57

TRIBUTES have been paid to chief executive of the Thames Valley Police Authority, Jim Booth, who died unexpectedly on Sunday (May 15) aged 57.

Mr Booth, who joined the authority from North Wiltshire District Council in 2003, had been instrumental in forging relationships with other police authorities and forces across the country, particularly in relation to the successful collaboration work with Hampshire Police Authority and Constabulary.

The chairman of Thames Valley Police Authority, Khan Juna, said: “Along with all his colleagues at the Authority, I am shocked and saddened by the news of Jim's death. Jim was not only a colleague, but a personal friend.

“He was well respected and liked across the Thames Valley policing area, as well as by those connected with the policing community across the country. I and other Police Authority Members will miss his support and wisdom.”

The chief constable of Thames Valley Police, Sara Thornton, said: “Jim was a close colleague for many of us and we respected his wise professionalism and constructive approach to our joint working. He had a very friendly and easy going manner making him a pleasure to work with. We will all miss him.”

“Our thoughts and condolences are with Jim's wife Sue, children Sarah and Andrew and his close friends at this sad time.”