A WELL-RESPECTED Civil Nuclear Constabulary officer died in a two-vehicle A66 collision, police have confirmed - tributes have poured in for the ‘hero’ who served his country.

Cumbria Constabulary has formally identified the man who died following the two-vehicle collision on the A66 near Baron’s Hill as Darryl Street, 59.

Mr Street was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash which took place at 7.20am on Thursday.

He worked for the Civil Nuclear Constabulary and previously served as an officer with Cumbria Police for a number of years.

Specialist officers are supporting his family at this tragic time.

In a statement, his wife Joanne and children Ruby, Lily and James said: “For Dad, we are all completely devastated by the tragic sudden death of our wonderful son, brother, husband, dad, police officer, soldier, friend and hero.

“He was a man who always tried to make the world a better place and had a huge impact on everyone who was lucky enough to cross paths with him.

“Over his lifetime he worked so hard for the RSPCA, the Army, Cumbria Police, and the Civil Nuclear Constabulary at Sellafield. Working hard to protect people in this country as well as deployments to fight overseas to protect his country.

“He was the kindest, funniest, most loyal, generous, incredible man and we are all struggling to come to terms with this awful loss.”

The family’s tribute added: “Thank you for all of the kind words and messages we have received from people who knew and loved Darryl. 

“Our family ask that you respect our privacy at this hard time and allow us the space to grieve. 

“We will never forget you, our husband, our Daddy, our Hero.”

PC Street joined the CNC in October 2019 after serving in the police force, he was most recently based at Sellafield Operational Police Unit. His chief constable Simon Chesterman said: “Darryl was a dedicated and committed police officer, who had spent years of his life serving and protecting the community. Although we only had the pleasure of his experience and commitment for just over a year at the CNC, his loss is keenly felt by all of his colleagues and friends.

“Our deepest condolences go to Darryl’s family for their loss. Both the CNC and the Civil Nuclear Police Federation remain in close contact with them and will continue to offer support and any help we can at this extremely difficult time.”

Michelle Skeer, Chief Constable of Cumbria Police, said: “The sudden death of former Cumbria Constabulary police officer Darryl Street has left everyone within the constabulary shocked and deeply saddened. He was an extremely well-respected and popular officer.

“Colleagues who worked closely with Darryl would describe him as always going the extra mile to help others, demonstrating compassion and kindness whether he was dealing with a member of the public or assisting colleagues.”