Tributes have been paid to a “hugely respected man” who has died aged 57.

Bob Tonge, who was BISC Juniors FC club secretary as well as a senior investigating officer with Greater Manchester Police, died at home on January 4.

Police and the local football community have all paid tribute to Bob, who was also a huge Bolton Wanderers fan.

Warren Barlow, the Bolton, Bury & District Football League (BBDFL) secretary, said: “Bob was a hugely respected man, who was a true gentleman in the full sense of the word.

“I would see Bob regularly walking his dog around Chew Moor and we chatted many times about the police, grassroots football, volunteering and Bolton Wanderers as he was a huge fan.

“He was quiet, unassuming, but professional and competent with everything he did including his grassroots sports community work with BISC, who played in the BBDFL.

“Many outside GMP didnt realise but he was also one of the most respected senior investigators at GMP with an attention to detail and knowledge that was rarely bettered and he will be a huge loss to the force also.

“He will be missed by many and I was so shocked to hear of his passing and I would like to offer condolences to his family and friends on behalf of everyone associated with the BBDFL.”

GMP's deputy chief constable, Mabs Hussain, said: "Bob made a significant contribution to policing across Greater Manchester for over 36 years, supporting numerous grieving families and victims of crime and ensuring perpetrators for some of the most horrific crimes were brought to justice."

Bob retired in 2014 at the rank of detective superintendent within the serious crime division before returning the same year as senior investigating officer in the major investigation support unit, public protection and the serious crime division.

Mr Hussain added: "He worked here with the same passion, dedication and commitment that he demonstrated throughout his career until he sadly passed away earlier this week.

"He was incredibly proud to serve the public and it is without doubt that he helped hundreds of people through some of the darkest times of their lives.

"Bob was an incredibly humble and kind man with an amazing willingness to help and support others. He will be missed immeasurably by his team and colleagues far and wide across the force and beyond."