Ray Wilson from Peacehaven died when his motorbike was in collision with a Range Rover.

The former police officer spent 30 years on the Force.

His son-in-law James Anderson, 32, said: 'We are going to be left with a huge void in our lives. Nobody can fill his shoes but we are so grateful we had him when he was here. He was such a great man and a great dad to us all.'

Mr Wilson ,61, of Malines Avenue, enjoyed a close knit family life, with his two daughters Francesca, 29, and Sabrina, 31, living just down the road. He met his wife Rosaria in Italy. They were married for 32 years.

James, who is Sabrina's husband, said: 'We always ate together three times a week.

'We spent a lot of time together. We all went on holiday together. Ray would just book it and organise where all of us were going.'

James described him as a man who was always happy, strong, helpful and intelligent.

'He was always keen to lend a hand,' added James.

Mr Wilson, 61, joined the police in 1970, where he worked as a constable.

During his career he received several commendations and also worked as a crime prevention officer.

At one stage he was in charge of baton training and self defence. He also worked in CID, Special Branch, armed response and burglary units.
He retired in 2000 and took up a job as a personal fitness instructor at Cheetah's Gym in Brighton.

Chief Superintendent Peter Coll, who was a friend, said: 'Ray Wilson was a lovely man.

'He truly loved his family and friends and had a real enthusiasm for life.'

Mr Wilson's two passions were going to the gym and motorcycles.
He had owned bikes for 25 years and had completed a motorbike safety course six months ago.

He also undertook charity work and spoke fluent Italian.

He is survived by his wife, his brother Alan, two daughters and three grandchildren, Cameron, seven, Sofia, five, and Luca, one.

He died on Tuesday December 23 when his blue Suzuki GSXR motorbike was in collision with a red Range Rover on the C7 between Lewes and Newhaven, just south of Southease.

Police are appealing for witnesses to call 0845 6070999.