AN 'inspirational' former senior officer with motor neurone disease (MND) has died.

Chris Johnson QPM, was diagnosed with MND in September 2018, leading him to retire from West Midlands Police in September 2020 after 29 years of service.

The force announced that the former assistant chief constable died on Thursday (April 20).

Paying tribute, a spokesperson for the force said: "Chris was an inspiration, who was open about his illness but never let it define him.

"Our thoughts are with his family today and all of his colleagues in policing".

Former West Midlands Police chief constable Sir David Thompson described Mr Johnson, who lived in Bromsgrove, as an "amazing man and police leader."

He said: "He leaves a huge legacy and many friends".

Retired director for West Midlands Police Neil Chamberlain said: "Chris was a great man, a great colleague and I’m proud to say a great friend".

Rich Cooke, the chair of the West Midlands Police Federation, said: "Chris was an inspirational leader & friend to me. My thoughts are especially with Sharon & his children".