The funeral of a popular police sergeant who died of a suspected heart attack while on duty will be held later this month.

PS Ian Harman, 47, died at his desk while on duty at the Merton Park and Cannon Hill safer neighbourhood team (SNT) base, in Aberconway Road, Morden.

Colleagues and ambulance staff fought to save the father-of-two from Sutton but he died just after 5pm on May 3.

PS Harman had served the Metropolitan Police for the last 24 years and had been based in Merton for the last five where he was regarded as a hard working and respected leader of the Merton Park Safer Neighbourhood team.

Writing in his weekly message today, Merton’s Borough Commander, Darren Williams said: “Tributes have been coming in from local people, partners and current and ex colleagues who worked with Ian.

“The common theme is what a professional and friendly person he was and that he will be sadly missed by everyone.

“Our thoughts are very much with Ian's family and colleagues at this sad time especially his two sons aged 10 and 12.

“I would also like to acknowledge and praise all those that tried in vain to save Ian.

“This would be a tragic event for any Borough but coming so soon after the death of PC Terry Elmer, also from the SNT, this has hit the Borough very hard.”

A book of condolence has been opened at Wimbledon Station where the flag is flying at half mast in honour of PS Harman.

PS Ian Harman’s funeral is expected to be held on Thursday, May 23, at the Randall's Park Crematorium in Leatherhead at 2.45pm.

PS Harman’s family have requested no flowers but have invited people to make a donation to Jigsaw4u - a charity working to support children and young people through trauma, loss and bereavement. 

Cheques should be make payable to Jigsaw4u with PS Ian Harman on the reverse and can be posted to the funeral directors: W A Truelove & Son, 121 High Street, Banstead SM7 2NS.