Tributes to Peterborough medal winning weightlifter and detective

Ben Devonshire, who won bronze medal at the 1994 games in Victoria, Canada, died earlier this month aged 45.

Ben, who was a detective constable for Cambridgeshire police, led a weightlifting class in Werrington, and was well known in the local community.

His brother, Tim, paid tribute. He said: “Our brother, Detective Constable Ben Devonshire, who was 45, a loving husband, amazing uncle, brilliant son, great friend to many and father of three passed away on March 9 this year.

“He was well known for his caring nature, and was popular with all who met and worked with him. He was a considerate and caring man, always putting others first. I was inspired throughout his life by his ability to demonstrate will power and commitment, he lived to a code throughout his life and this was visible in the admirable career choice he followed in his thirties, joining the police force, worked on various projects and decided to take an active community role, both challenging his own physical and mental barriers, all to help others and to follow his code of doing what is right.

“He progressed and became an active policeman and detective investigating crimes and helping to protect the people of Cambridgeshire.”

While he was a successful weightlifter, Tim said his brother remained modest about his achievements.

Tim said: “lthough he rarely spoke of it, Ben represented the UK and Peterborough in the 1994 Commonwealth Games , held in Victoria, Canada, the first games to see the return of South Africa following their 30 year absence during the apartheid era. Ben won a Bronze Medal for Weight-lifting at the games, in the 59kg class, lifting a whopping 132.5kg in the Clean and Jerk.”

Ben leaves Kate his partner, Joseph and Amy his step children and Lilly, his 18 year old daughter.

His funeral will take place at Peterborough Crematorium on March 28, when he will be given a guard of honour by fellow police officers.