Tributes paid to former politician Mike Torode

As well as being chief minister between 2007 and 2008, Mr Torode was president of the first committee for Home Affairs, which brought together several previously separate committees, making success of the controversial reform.

‘He had a wonderful life. He did all sorts of things that people may not have known about,’ said former Environment minister Peter Sirett.

‘I’d known him for about 60 years as we used to live quite close in St Martin’s.

‘We could do with more people like him.’

Under his leadership he oversaw several capital projects, including a new police station and new prison.

Current president for Home Affairs Deputy Rob Prow said that he was a customs officer when he first met Mr Torode and always found him to be ‘respectful, straight-down-the-line and dedicated to Guernsey’.

‘Mike had a very long history of service to this island. He was the minister for Home Affairs for a term, during which I served as his chief customs officer. During that time, Mike was always a gentleman, while also being a straight-talker,’ said Deputy Prow.

‘He was a huge advocate for the department’s professional services, showing constant support for officers and a genuine interest in their work. He still has an impact on the police to this day, as he formally opened the current police station.

‘Guernsey has lost one of its strongest characters with Mike’s passing, and he will undoubtedly be missed by so many.

'He will also be remembered, however, for the way he conducted himself in public service, his tenacity and for the examples he set.’

Deputy Prow gave his condolences to Mr Torode’s family, many of whom he came to know through their work together.

While some politicians remained good colleagues, others formed close friendships with Mr Torode, including Brian Gabriel.

‘We met in the States in 2000 and my respect for him grew and grew. He became chief minister at a difficult time for the States,’ he said.

‘We stayed in contact over the years, mainly through camping. We both had motor homes and me and my wife became very friendly with Mike and Pauline and we went out together every Thursday afternoon for a chat about the old days.

‘He was a strong person in business and in the States. The conseilleurs at the time had a lot of respect for him, and that’s what’s lacking today – deputies need to respect each other.’