THE family of the off-duty police officer who died following a jet-ski accident have paid tribute to him.

PC Barry Davies, stationed at Porthmadog Police Station, was 49-years-old and lived in the Pwllheli area.

He tragically died on Saturday, August 15, following an incident involving a jet-ski.

North Wales Police confirmed that shortly after 4.30pm the alarm was raised that a man had fallen from the jet-ski and was in the water off the coast of Pwllheli.

The emergency services attended including the Coastguard and RNLI, and the officer was retrieved from the water.

In a statement, his family have issued the following tribute: “As a family it is very difficult to put in to words what Barry meant to us all. He was extremely popular and a true gentleman, remaining calm in all situations that life threw at him.

“He worked so hard to become a police officer, a job that he loved and was dedicated to. He also took great pleasure in being an RNLI crewman and karate instructor.

"He lived his life to the full, spending precious and quality time with his partner and two daughters.

“He was a beloved son, loving partner, doting father, caring brother and a dear friend and colleague to all that were blessed to know him.

“As a family we would like to send our heartfelt thanks to all for their kind messages and support at our tragic loss.”

Adding to the tribute, NWP Chief Constable Carl Foulkes said: “As a force we are devastated at the loss of our colleague and our heartfelt sympathies go to his family, friends and colleagues at this extremely difficult time.

“Barry joined North Wales Police in 2013. He was a much respected Police Officer and I have no doubt that this tragic loss will be felt widely across the force by those who worked with Barry, those who knew him and became his friends."

Mark Jones, general secretary of North Wales Police Federation added: “

From speaking to colleagues over the last few days it is absolutely evident that Barry was a hugely respected colleague and friend. It is also clear that Barry was highly thought of by his local community.

“We have received numerous messages of condolence from police forces throughout the UK and this shows that Barry’s loss has been felt nationwide by the policing family.

“Our thoughts and heartfelt sympathies go out to Barry’s family. He will be sorely missed."