Sir James Anderton, controversial former chief constable of Greater Manchester Police, dies aged 89

Sir James Anderton, the former chief constable of Greater Manchester Police, has died at the age of 89. Sir James led Greater Manchester Police between 1975 and 1991 and became one of the country's most high profile police chiefs.

Known for his controversial opinions and hard line views, he inspired a Happy Mondays track and once had his job saved by Margaret Thatcher. He had faced calls to step down after claiming that victims of Aids were in a 'human cesspool of their own making'.

Current GMP chief constable Stephen Watson has led tributes, describing him as a 'public servant of significant stature'. Sir James was well regarded by many police officers who regarded him as a 'copper's copper', but also severely criticised by others for his views.

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Born in Wigan, Sir James joined the police in the 1950s and rose through the ranks. He gained senior roles at forces in Cheshire and Leicestershire before being given the top job at GMP.

After being appointed he pursued a policy of 'public accountability', and demanded that the force maintain closer contact with the community. He helped to introduce 'Community Contact Departments' to foster relationships with the public.

Sir James' tenure included high profile incidents including the Moss Side riot of 1981, the latest civil unrest to hit the country. He launched crackdowns against pornography and prostitution, against late night drinking and also launched the Tactical Aid Group, which was deployed to tackle public disorder.

But he perhaps became most well known for his controversial views on a number of subjects. Known as 'God’s Copper', he was heavily influenced by his Christian faith and