WEST Devon police officers and staff waved a fond farewell to a ‘much loved and respected’ colleague.

Sgt Pennie Channing retired last Tuesday (January 28) after 27 years with Devon and Cornwall police.

She started as a police constable for the force in 1993 and during her career she has worked at many police stations in the two counties, namely Launceston, Devonport, Crownhill, Charles Cross, Tavistock, Ilfracombe, Barnstaple, Holsworthy and finally finishing as the neighbourhood team leader in Okehampton.

West Devon inspector Mark Sloman said: ‘Pennie has been such an influential member of the neighbourhood team here in West Devon and I know she will be missed by all of her colleagues in Okehampton and Tavistock, as well as the numerous agencies who Pennie dealt with on a daily basis.

‘She has always been passionate about policing and even after 27 years of service, she still came to work with the same enthusiasm she had all those years ago.

‘She will not only be a loss to Devon and Cornwall Police but also to the communities of West Devon.

‘It has been a real privilege to work with Pennie over the years so I want to wish her all the best for her retirement.’

PS Nathan Walker, from the West Devon Neighbourhood Policing team, said: ‘Pennie dedicated her career to supporting communities across the Devon and Cornwall Police force area.

‘Pennie worked as the neighbourhood team leader for West Devon for several years before her retirement and dedicated her time to safeguarding some of the most vulnerable members of our society.

‘The announcement of Pennie’s retirement has been met with many messages of thanks and praise for the work she has done to engage the public and support people.

‘Pennie was a supportive, caring member of our team and her commitment to her role as police sergeant, her team and the public will be missed. We wish her great success in her future adventures.’

PSCO Lisa Smith, from Okehampton, added: ‘She has become very popular in the communities she has served and has become a valuable part of the local policing team. We wish Pennie all the best for the future.’