ABOUT 700 people packed Rochester Cathedral to celebrate the life and career of David McCann, an assistant chief constable with Kent Police, who died in July aged 41.

Mr McCann died in hospital after suffering a heart attack at his home near Gravesend.

A sea of blue uniforms solemnly made their way into cathedral for the memorial service on Thursday. It was attended by chief constables and senior officers from forces across the country.

Other dignitaries, including MPs and senior councillors also paid their respects during the hour-long service, which was led by the cathedral's acting Dean, Canon Jonathan Meyrick.

Standard bearer PC Mick O'Meara followed the family into the cathedral alongside PCs Stephen Napper and Darryll Paulson.

During the service Chief Constable Mike Fuller paid tribute to Mr McCann's exemplary 20-year career with Kent Police, describing his former colleague as an officer "of the highest calibre" who made a significant contribution to policing.

Deputy chief constable Jim Barker-McCardle also spoke at the ceremony on behalf of Mr McCann's family, including his widow and two children.

During his tribute, Mr Fuller told how Mr McCann achieved one of the highest exam marks in the country when he was promoted to sergeant in 1990.

Mr Fuller said the death of Mr McCann had shocked the force and colleagues and his "sense of fun and commitment" would be greatly missed.

He stressed: "Communities across Kent have much to thank him for. His loss is not just felt in the county but in the police service nationally. He was a role model for many other officers. ACC McCann was a bright, innovative, enthusiastic man who was passionate about policing."

Mr McCann joined Kent Police in 1984 and rose quickly through the ranks. During his impressive career he helped develop the intelligence-led policing model, head up Special Branch and, as one of three Assistant Chief Constables, was responsible for all areas of specialist support including counter terrorism, intelligence and serious crime investigation. He was also Medway Police Commander for two years between 1998 - 2000 and was promoted to ACC just eight months before his untimely death.

Speaking after the service Medway MP Bob Marshall-Andrews said: "Everyone here knew that this was a great man. If he had lived he would have gone straight to the top. He showed a real dedication to his profession and he will be greatly missed."

Four books of condolence have been compiled for the family, containing tributes to Mr McCann and messages of support and sympathy.

His funeral was held at St John the Evangelist Church in Gravesend on July 29, followed by a private burial service.