John Johnson

The long-serving officer, who lived locally, had twice been named community constable of the year. An extremely popular local figure, following his death there have been a host of tributes received by Wandsworth Council and other organisations with which he was involved.

Cllr Lister said: "There will never be another officer like John. He was simply the best-known policeman in Battersea. He loved being out with the people and had devoted his career to serving his community.

"He was an old-style police officer who was very much in touch with today's problems. He saw the effect that anti-social behaviour had on the community and knew that by staying close to the ground he was in the best position to deal with it.

"Wherever you live in London you'd want a community policeman like John. The news of his death was shattering."

John Johnson had served for 29 years in Battersea. He was an active supporter of the Battersea Crime Prevention Panel and a regular helper at the Rotary Club's Christmas lunches in Battersea Park.