GLOBE readers have posted messages of condolence on social media after the death of a retired policeman from stab wounds at a house in Heswall earlier this week.

Police were called to a property on Oldfield Way in Heswall at around 8.45pm on Monday (January 24) and found retired Andrew McDiarmid, 64, with serious injuries.

He was pronounced dead at the scene.

His next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers.

Mr McDiarmid was a former Merseyside Police officer who retired in 2008 after 30 years' service.

Among the tributes was from Lou40, who wrote: "I know PC Andrew. He came to my nans when she called them over the neighbour he was a very nice kind officer.

"He worked at Upton Station and also the pyramids shopping center Grange Road.

"He was an honoured officer who did not dererve any of this poor man and his family must be so upset."

Lynne Morgan put: "So sad thinking of all his friends and family xx R I P XX"

Stephanie Purser Brereton commented: "How sad. RIP. X"

Kirsty Marie commented: “Prayers to your family Andy - you were a great colleague and a wonderful human being - just in shock x”

A 21 year-old man arrested at the scene has now been detained under the Mental Health Act and taken to hospital for assessment.

A 54-year-old woman has been released on bail as enquiries continue.

A post-mortem has been carried out and the cause of death has been confirmed as stab wounds.

An investigation remains ongoing and officers remain on Oldfield Way while extensive CCTV, house-to-house and forensic enquiries being carried out.

Chief Constable Serena Kennedy said: "Andy joined Merseyside Police in 1978 and spent 30 years with the service, working at Wavertree police station and in CID in Tuebrook, Huyton and Wirral.

"He retired as a Detective Inspector in intelligence in 2008.

"Our thoughts and condolences are with Andy’s family at this tragic time."

Anyone with information can contact Merseyside Police social media desk via Twitter @MerPolCC or Facebook Merseyside Police Contact Centre with reference 22000056993.

You can also call 101 or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously, on 0800 555 111 or via their online form at: https://crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information/give-information.