Death of retired Police Officer: Chief Inspector David Cromarty

It is with deep regret that we inform you of the death of retired Police Officer, Chief Inspector David Cromarty, who died at home, on Thursday 13th November 2025 aged 65 years.

David joined Durham Constabulary on the 19th May 1980, serving initially in Wear Valley, before working in the Control Room and Durham City. In 1988 he was seconded to the Home Office Police National Computer Unit and promoted to Sergeant. David served as uniform Sergeant at Bishop Auckland town and Easington before transferring to HQ Personnel and Training in 1994. In November 1996 David was promoted to Inspector and seconded to National Police Training, following which he was uniform Inspector at Newton Aycliffe. In August 2001 he moved to Forward planning at HQ. Promotion to Chief Inspector in August 2003 saw a transfer to Community Safety and then to South Area Command in November 2004 responsible for Neighbourhood policing. David later transferred to HQ Communications in March 2006 where he served until his retirement in May 2010.

David was an accomplished musician, playing the piano from the age of 8. He also played keyboards for several bands and performed at numerous gigs across the northeast. He volunteered at Framwellgate School, supporting young musicians.

David is survived by his wife Clare.

A private cremation has been held but everyone who knew David is invited to join Clare and friends at a Celebration of Life for David. This event will take place at Durham County International Cricket Ground, Chester-le-Street, at 2pm on 12th January 2026.

No flowers please, donations in lieu to the Great North Air Ambulance Service