at his side.His coffin was draped in a union flag and a naval bugler sounded the last post at a full ceremonial send-off for the respected British transport policeman.

at his side.

His coffin was draped in a union flag and a naval bugler sounded the last post at a full ceremonial send-off for the respected British transport policeman.

Colleagues, family and friends gathered at the west chapel at Ipswich crematorium yesterday to pay their respects and celebrate the life of the father of two.

Sergeant Bob Munn, of the British Transport Police, spoke of great fondness about his former colleague.

He said: "Steve was a larger than life character, always happy, with a quick wit and always with an anecdotal story for every incident.

"He was never down and looked for the silver lining in every cloud - and he was one of those people who usually managed to find it.

"Steve was a very strong man and could always be relied upon in a violent situation. He was very loyal to his friends and colleagues."

Pc Harris served with the British Transport Police for more than 20 years after being in the Royal navy for nine, died at the age of 48.

Pc Harris's other loves were his partner Jacqui and fishing - a pastime that he and Jacqui enjoyed together.

Sgt Munn said his colleague and friend had mentioned several times that when he died, he wanted to be at the lake fishing with Jacqui.

His request was sadly granted when he passed away following a heart attack on Sunday November 3 while at a fishing match at Stonham Barns with Jacqui.

Pc Harris served at various police stations on the London Underground division of the force, and transferred to London North area being stationed at Ipswich in 1999.

Pc Harris loved police work and was very proud of his police and Navy background.

He leaves a son Mark, 22, and a daughter Stacey, 17.

Sgt Munn added: "He will be greatly missed by family, friends and colleagues alike."