READERS have paid their respects to a retired Barrow police officer of 25 years who tragically lost his battle with cancer – weeks after marrying the love of his life.

Mark Dempster died on July 7 after a shock terminal cancer diagnosis gave him weeks – if not days – to live.

The 55-year-old dad-of-one, who retired from the force in September, told nurses that he wanted to marry the love of his life Lianne.

The pair said ‘I do’ at Furness General Hospital on June 17 after Ward 9 staff arranged their dream wedding with just two hours of planning.

Three weeks after tying the knot, Mr Dempster died leaving behind his ‘best friend’ Lianne and daughter, Sophie.

Lianne described her late husband as a ‘fantastic person’ who she feels ‘grateful’ to have known.

READ MORE: Retired policeman loses cancer battle - weeks after marrying love of life

Batman without Robin said: “RIP Mark.”

Andrea Rushton said: “Oh this is so sad to read.. i knew Mark through a mutual friend, from many years ago.. such a nice guy. Sad.. thoughts are with his wife and family...”

Brenda Livesey said: “My love and thoughts go out to all the family, God bless.”

Sandra Scheffler said: “So sad, may he RIP, and may his wife have wonderful memories to remember.”

Sheila Makin said: “So sad.”

Eileen Brown said: “Rest in peace. Amen.”

Bob Whittall said: “All Barrow cops are special because they love the town and its people..its unique because we all know each other a very sad loss RIP OFFICER X”

Christine Jones said: “Aw thoughts with his family rip.”

Jacqui Sugden said: “RIP.”

Gillian Nicholson said: “Rest in peace Mark x”

Amy Diane Richardson said: “Thinking of his family and friends at this sad time r.i.p.”

Rose Campbell said: “This is so sad rip and thank you xx”

Anne Walker said: “RIP lad.”

Carol Lowden said: “So very sad x”