The policeman killed in a counter terrorism operation in Manchester has been described by colleagues as a "thorough, competent and conscientious officer ".

Detective Constable Stephen Oake, 40, was stabbed in the chest at a flat in Crumpsall during a raid linked with the discovery of the deadly poison ricin in London last week.

The married father-of-three had been with Greater Manchester Police for 20 years.

His father was a former Assistant Chief Constable with the force, and former Chief Constable of the Isle of Man.

He was proud to be a police officer and always gave 110% Detective Chief Superintendent Bernard Postles

Mr Oake, a Christian and regular churchgoer, worked in uniform in South Manchester for the first 15 years of his career, including eight years as a traffic officer.

In April 1999 he transferred to the Special Branch working at Manchester Airport, in the forefront of the fight against terrorism.

During 2002 he worked extensively on the planning of VIP protection of royalty, government ministers and dignitaries at the Commonwealth Games for which his branch commander commended him.

In January last year he was also commended for his professional skills and expertise in an investigation into passport fraud.

Detective Chief Superintendent Bernard Postles said: "Steve was a thorough, competent and conscientious officer who had a strong desire to get on with the job he loved.

Mr Postles said Mr Oake was highly regarded

"He was proud to be a police officer and always gave 110%.

"This is evidenced by several letters from members of the public to his senior officers in which they wanted to record their thanks for what, on some occasions, must have seemed a minor courtesy extended by Steve, but which meant so much to those he had helped.

"His colleagues regarded him as a thoroughly reliable workmate.

"He was what is known in police circles as a prolific thief taker, whose tenacity is legendary in Greater Manchester Special Branch.

"That tenacity led to Steve giving his life for the public he was proud to serve."

Mr Oake had been married to his wife Lesley for 20 years, and the couple have a 15-year-old son and two daughters, aged 14 and 12.