The RSPCA has paid tribute to a senior inspector who died after working at the charity for nearly 50 years.
Mike Butcher, a chief inspector at the RSPCA, died last week due to complications after a long battle with cancer, the charity said.
A colleague said Butcher had “worked tirelessly” to protect and rescue abused animals.
Butcher, who was 70, joined the RSPCA from Cambridgeshire Police in 1972 and retired in 2020.
He worked for its Special Operations Unit, which investigates organised and large-scale animal cruelty, first as an inspector and then a chief inspector.
In 2016, Butcher was named the RSPCA Superstar of the Year for his commitment to tackling animal cruelty.
Dermot Murphy, RSPCA chief inspectorate officer, said: “Mike dedicated much of his life to the RSPCA and animal welfare. He was instrumental in bringing a number of organised dog fighters to justice.
“Mike was so well known throughout the inspectorate and someone who I have known for many years.
“We mourn his loss and all our thoughts are with his family and friends at this time.”