Colleagues and Family Pay Tribute to Respected Marine Unit Officer Following Tragic Portsmouth Crash

Heartfelt tributes have been paid to a well-respected police officer following a tragic single-vehicle collision in Portsmouth.

PC Mark Chester, affectionately known to many simply as “Chester”, sadly died on the morning of Saturday 2 May after a road traffic collision on Mile End Road while travelling home following a night shift.

Mark was a serving officer with the MOD Portsmouth Marine Unit, where he worked as a CTAFO, and was widely admired by colleagues across the emergency services community.

Before joining the Marine Unit, Mark began his policing career in Surrey, serving on Reigate and Banstead A-Rota before later moving to Western division, where he quickly earned the respect and friendship of those he worked alongside.

Friends, colleagues and loved ones have described him as “one of a kind” — a dedicated officer, loving family man and someone whose humour and kindness left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

In a touching tribute shared by colleagues, they said Mark was “the first to step forward and the last to leave”, always supporting those around him and bringing laughter even during the toughest shifts.

They added: “Mark was truly one of a kind — someone who could light up any room with his smile. A genuinely good man who will be deeply missed by so many.”

Mark leaves behind his devoted wife, Ally, and their two young children, Jack and Kit.

The news of his death has sent shockwaves through the wider blue light community, with tributes continuing to pour in from fellow officers, friends and members of the public.

Colleagues have invited anyone who knew Mark to share photographs, memories and messages of condolence so his children can one day see just how loved and respected their father was.

One tribute ended with the emotional words:

“Your shift is over now, Chester. Rest easy.

State 11 — off duty 💙”

Source: View original post on Facebook

Posted: 2026-05-07T21:35:51+0000