IN a 34-year career, John Mitchell served in every rank from constable through to chief superintendent with Strathclyde Police, before retiring as head of CID in July.

He was responsible for investigations into some of the most high-profile crimes committed in the Strathclyde area, including the police investigation into parcel bombs sent to Celtic manager Neil Lennon. Mr Mitchell, 54, formed part of Operation Rubicon – Scotland's phone hacking investigation – and was responsible for the strategic oversight of the inquiry which led to ex-News of World editor Andy Coulson facing perjury charges over the Tommy Sheridan trial.

This year, he was awarded the Queen's Police Medal in the Birthday Honours list.