Commissioner of Police Michael DeSilva has expressed sadness over the passing of retired Deputy Commissioner of Police Alex Forbes.

Mr Forbes joined the then Bermuda Police Force in September 1963 from Scotland.

He served in the uniform branch before joining the Special Branch.

In his senior ranks, Mr Forbes was in charge of the administration and finance departments.

An avid sportsman, he played for many years on the police rugby team and was also involved with the cricket team and the boxing section.

He retired as Deputy Commissioner in November 1995.

Commissioner DeSilva said: “Mr Forbes was known for his skill on the rugby field, his professional bearing, and his good sense of humour. He is fondly remembered by those of us who served with him, and our most sincere condolences go out to his entire family at this sad time.”

Mr Forbes was the husband of Valerie Forbes, father of Amanda and Grant (Alexandra) and grandfather of Justin, Kayla, Sofia and Eva. He died in his 77th year.