Police colleagues formed a guard of honour as mourners packed the village church of St Mary’s in Minster on Tuesday for the funeral of Det Con Andy Eley.

The funeral cortege was escorted by three police motorbike outriders down the High Street for the final journey through the officer's home village, followed in a black limousine by widow Linda and their children Nicholas, Victoria and Harry.

On arrival, a dozen officers in ceremonial uniform received the coffin, draped with the Kent Police flag and family flowers. Some acted as pall bearers to carry it into the church for the private service.

Dozens of Thanet and Kent officers were among family, friends and villagers paying their last respects to 43-year-old Det Con Eley, who died last month after being hit by a train at Broadley crossing between Minnis Bay and Reculver.

Det Con Eley had served 21 years with Kent Police in Thanet, spending much of his career as a detective in the crime unit. For a time he had also been a rural bobby.

His latest posting was in Margate’s public protection unit, supporting vulnerable people who have been victims of crime.

He was described as a "reliable, honest and friendly family man with a good sense of humour."

A trust fund has since been set up for his children and donations can be made through funeral directors WS Cole and Son of Monkton on 01843 821253.