THE CHESHIRE policeman who was killed in a minibus crash in Thailand last week began his career as a Special Constable in Crewe.

Kevin Brinkman, who lived in Northwich, died in Phuket last Tuesday following a road accident in which two other Cheshire officers were also injured.

PC Brinkman was in the Far East as part of the British response team to the tsunami disaster.

A statement released by his family revealed that he began his career in Crewe as a Special.

The statement said: "Kevin will be remembered as a loving and committed family man and father.

"During his 11 years of service, he was respected by his colleagues as a hard working and dedicated officer, and had been commended for his bravery."

PC Brinkman joined Cheshire Police as a Special Constable in 1992, before starting an 11-year career as a regular officer in 1994.

Before leaving for Thailand, he was a member of Warrington's Community Action Team.

He lived in Northwich with his long-term fiance Diana and two-year-old daughter Chloe, and was due to be married in September.

In 2002, the 33-year-old received a chief constable's commendation for bravery for his part in foiling an armed robbery.

Peter Fahy, Cheshire Police's chief constable, said: "Kevin was a fine officer and our thoughts are with his family and friends at this sad time.

"It's difficult to comprehend what they must be going through, and we will continue to support them.

"The officers were involved in the identification of the victims in the wake of the tsunami, and that in itself was a very distressing and difficult task.

"This tragic event will make it harder for his colleagues to continue.

"This tragedy has affected many officers and staff within the constabulary, many of whom were stunned when they heard the news."

Authorities in Thailand have this week been continuing their investigation into the minibus crash.

PC Brinkman's body was flown back to the UK on Friday.

PC Kevin Brinkman is pictured, right, after receiving his commendation for bravery.