Police Scotland said: “Our thoughts are with his friends and family, who have asked for their privacy to be respected at this difficult time.”

The officer was remembered at the annual Scottish Police Memorial ceremony held in the grounds of the Scottish Police College at Tulliallan on Wednesday.

Chief Constable Iain Livingstone expressed his sympathy for the family of PC Buggins.

Speaking at the opening of the ceremony, Mr Livingstone said: “Only yesterday police constable Roy Buggins sadly passed away after taking unwell while discharging his duties in the town of Montrose in Angus.

“Roy had over 28 years service and was looking forward to retirement.

“He was a very experienced officer who worked throughout the Tayside area, most latterly in community policing and was held in high regard by his colleagues and indeed the local community.

“I know at this particularly sad time you will join me in sending the condolences of all us here and indeed the entire policing community.”

The officer’s name will now be engraved onto the walls of the Scottish Police Memorial at the college.

Hundreds of tributes were posted to the “always cheerful and happy to help” officer on the force’s Tayside webpage.

Linda Swankie said: “A real tragedy. Roy was such a nice guy. Thoughts with Faye and all the family. So sad.”

Mandy Manni added: “So sad and shocked to hear this news in Australia. Roy was one of the good guys, always smiling, always helpful. Taken way too young. RIP x.”

And Alan Samson said: “Very down to earth and genuine guy. Was part of the fittings of Angus during all my time there. Very popular amongst us all and a real people-person. B a lot of hurt around hearing this. Thoughts with family.”