Durham Peeler : Summer 2010

Durham Peeler SUMMER 2010

“Eis Servire Qui Serviverunt”. “Of Service to those who serve

A brief N.A.R.P.O. National Conference overview. By Alan S. Watson.

I suppose you have all immediately recognised the significance? Well, I know now, having been advised b who speaks the lingo… Just to further your know N.A.R.P.O. can be broadly described as “To safeguard th promote measures for their welfare, with particular rega would add “and a whole lot more”

DURHAM

Being armed with this knowledge and a remit from the D Barry & Angie Crawford and yours truly set forth to wh best Conferences in recent years at Scarborough (of c PC 929 Fred Wiehl driving the first car in Darlington - a90th Annivers further memorable because this year is the 1930 Alvis Silver Eagle UP5121 National Association Retired Police Officers and a fitt Mike Thornton, the retiring NARPO Chief Executive w COUNTYBRANCH Magazine trappings of power to Clint Elliott.

Traditionally, the Annual Conference has been held alternatively “north” and “south” to en

Durham Branch N.A.R.P.O. Committee, 2010/11 Chairman & Editor “Durham Peeler” magazine: Alan S. Watson, 38, Hummersknott Avenue, Darlington. DL3 8LG. Tel. No. 01325 465609; Mob. No. 07716386845; email suenala7@ntlworld.com Honorary President: Derek Harrison L.L.B; M.B.E; c/o Helen McArdle Care Home, Durham DH1 5SE.

Durham Constabulary & National Association Retired Police Officers (Durham Branch) In partnership present a brand new joint venture:

The all neW Reunion Garden Party Durham Constabulary H.Q. Aykley Heads

Sunday, 13th June, 2010. 2pm – 5pm.

Vice Chairman: Tom Baxter. Tel No. 0191 3849036.

Secretary: Barry C. Crawford, 8, Warwick Place, Peterlee, SR2 2EZ Tel No. 0191 5180996 email barrychiltoncrawford@yahoo.co.uk

All retired police staff, their families AND serving staff are invited.

Be sure to support this occasion. We intend it to be an ongoing annual event but we need YOU!

Welfare Officer & Assistant Secretary: Angie Crawford Tel. No. 0191 5180996 email angiechilton@yahoo.com.

Thanks to a new and dynamic dialogue and developing co-operation between the Durham Branch of NARPO Committee and the Durham Constabulary Executive Officers, we have worked long and hard to prepare and present a NEW Reunion Day. Unlike any previous occasion, serving members of staff are also invited to participate and share the experience with their retired colleagues.

This bold and exciting development has inspired Chief Constable, Jon Stoddart, who has long been a supporter of NARPO to go to great measures to underwrite this venture - partly financed I hasten to add by the Durham NARPO Branch. The hospitality and enthusiasm of the Executive Officers and senior staff has been invaluable to ensuring a spectacular afternoon in prospect for all the families and friends associated with our great “family Force”. I say this advisedly – for in this exciting new climate of change and co-operation, the future really is bright and bodes well for ongoing social integration.

Treasurer: Colin Appleby, 21, Lea Rigg, West Rainton, Houghton le Spring DH4 6SR. Tel. No. 0191 5846178 email Appleby.colin@btinternet.com Committee Members George Bennison Tel. No. 01325 314879

Bill Bramfitt

Tel No. 01388 604369

Ches. Brighouse Tel. No. 01388 818288 Stephen Heiniger Tel No. 07737 602394

Tony Burn, Martin Hall

Tel. No.01388 813904 Tel. No.01388 816617

Ray Jones

Audrey Ledger Tel. No. 01388 601267

Tel. No. 01388 663098 Mob. No 07779 125383

Don Moody

Tel. No. 01325 460314

Bill Stableforth Tel. No. 0191 3866419

David Muckle

Tel No. 01325 462398

Tim Wilson

Mob. No. 07794135893 Tel. No. 0191 3865098

NARPO (Durham Branch) Meetings 2010. All members are invited to come along and enjoy.

Monday, 12th

July,

2010

7.30pm. Bishop Auckland Hospital Club.

Monday, 13th September, 2010.

7.30pm Durham Indoor Bowling Club

Monday,

7.30pm Bishop Auckland Hospital Club

8th November, 2010

Welcome to new Durham branch members : Camelia Prendergast Malcolm Pugh Brian Ruddick David Surtees Gillian Linda Airey Wendy Aspey Alan Briggs Thomas Coates David Cromarty David M.G. Davies Ian Doran James Fiddaman Robert Gadd

The NEW Reunion Garden Party at Durham Constabulary Headquarters.

Sunday, 13thJune,1010. 2pm – 5pm. All retired AND serving officers & staff and families invited. A guaranteed Fun Afternoon Out. Meet your old friends, serving officers, staff and colleagues.

N.B. Admission is by TICKET ONLY (for security & catering). Have you ordered and received your ticket? If you still haven’t - contact Angie Crawford or Colin Appleby immediately. NO TICKET NO ENTRY!

Annual Reunion Lunch. NARPO Members & Friends.

Sunday, 26th September, 2010. 12.30pm for 1pm Durham Indoor Bowling Centre, Pity Me, Durham.

Complete the printed application form insert in centre of magazine NOW to book your places

The venue is at Aykley Heads Amenity Block, including their luxurious dining room. There will be a Heritage Display, manned by Beamish Museum staff and members of the North East Police Historic Society with exhibits and a large photographic display; Motor Patrol and Motor cycles will be on display; the Dog Section will make another of their smart display scenarios and the Constabulary Band & Choir will be providing music for the occasion. Don’t forget to visit the NARPO stall and acquaint yourselves with the great offers in by Roland Smith – long term supporters of NARPO and who are providing lots of goodies on the NARPO stall.

N.B. A number of staff members are volunteering to assist throughout the day –for which we are grateful.

If anyone genuinely has difficulty in organising transport – please tell us – we may have a volunteer or two to help you get there – and back (if you behave yourself…)

A stair lift has been especially installed to assist the less mobile up the stairs to the Dining area.

Coffee, tea and soft drinks will be available throughout the afternoon and High Tea will be served at the announced time. What more could you want?

Oh yes, did I mention -this is FREE. Make your application for tickets early please to: Angie Crawford Tel. 01915180996, e mail angiecilton@yahoo.com Colin Appleby Tel. 01915846178, e mail Appleby.colin@btopenworld.com Jayne Swinburne Tel 01913752273, e mail jayne.swinburne@durham.pnn.police.uk All applicants will receive their tickets well before the event and each ticket will bear your name to help others to recognise or remember you at the event. A ‘posh’ card holder will be given to you upon entry to facilitate your ticket to be displayed (help is available if needed….)

Thought for the day-there’s nothing worse than struggling to remember the name of a familiar face!

Come along and enjoy a fun afternoon, meet friends and ex colleagues. Life is what you make it.

There is a catch of course – No Ticket – No Admission!

OBITUARIES Durham Constabulary Retired Officers & widows to 30th April, 2010 Harry Kirkup

80 years. Died 5th November, 2009. High Shincliffe,

Hazel Dickinson

82 years Died 14th November 2009 Bishop Auckland

James Bailes

93 years. Died 19th November 2009. Elwick (Hartlepool)

Bryan Geoffrey Briggs

62 years. Died 21st November, 2009 Darlington

James Kenneth McChesney 78 years

Died 21st November 2009 Crook

John Alfred Lisgo

88 years

Died 27th November 2009 Durham City

Melvyn Clare Smith

68 years

Died 3rd December, 2009. Barnard Castle

Steven Abson

53 years

Died 16th December 2009. Consett

William Leslie Atkinson

86 years

Died 18th December 2009. Spennymoor.

Frank William Price

79 years

Died 22nd December, 2009. Crook

John Robert Turner

67 years. Died 18th January

2010 Crook

Peter Ward

71 years

Died 19th January

Donald Ernest Morgan

87 years

Died 7th February,2010

Newton Aycliffe

Gordon Fletcher

83 years

Died 11th February, 2010

Bishop Auckland

James McKenna

62 years

Died 16th February, 2010

Newton Aycliffe

Peter White

76 years

Died 17th February, 2010

Stockton

Norman Cuerdon

74 years

Died 27th February, 2010

Peterlee

Alan Jones

80 years

Died 27th February, 2010

Durham City

Austin Johnson

86 years

Died 19th March,

2010

Durham City

James “Benny” Gauden

86 years

Died 26th March,

2010

Newton Aycliffe

Samuel Shepherd

95 years Died 12th March

2010

Queensland, Australia

John George (Jack) Blair

84 years

Died 31st March

2010

Birtley

Died

2010

Chester le Street.

Robert T. (Bob) Rennisson 75 years

7th April

2010 Bishop Auckland

Derrick Richardson

83 years . Died 13th April,

2010

Seaham

Harry Jacobs

86 years. Died

14th April,

2010

Perthshire

John Gordon Brown

76 years

Died

21st April,

2010

Chester le Street

Neville Johnson

82 years

Died

25th April,

2010

Durham City

Widow Mrs Doris Chatt,

107 years Died 13th February 2010

Ferryhill (Our oldest widow member)

We extend our condolences to their loved ones and to those nearest & dearest. They are in our thoughts. We are grateful for their valuable contribution made in maintaining the fine reputation of Durham Constabulary

Keep up to date with the latest news from NARPO. Visit www.durhamnarpo.blogspot.com

Here Comes Summer….Durham Branch in Bloom?

Welcome one and all to the summer edition of the Durham Peeler magazine. As you can probably guess from the tenor of the headline – yes, we are in “bullish” form and it has absolutely nothing to do with the election. There was a lot of another type of “bull….”- (similar word but not quite the same) talked and written in that campaign!

What it has everything to do with and should be pleasing to you all, are the advancement in the communication, consultation and co-operation between our NARPO Branch and the regular parent Force. (It pays to advertise). Indeed Chief Constable Jon Stoddart has personally attested his complete support and admiration for NARPO! (Thank you sir, I take back all I once said…). As we all know, actions speak louder than words and Force Executive Officers have clearly shown a personal interest’ acting decisively and quickly in support and development of closer and better relationships with retired personnel With the enthusiastic support of the Chief Constable, a series of working conferences have taken place at Aykley Heads between Executive Officers, senior staff and our own NARPO Branch Executive. I am delighted to announce formally that the first all new Reunion Garden Party for all police officers and staff –both retired AND serving will be held at the Amenity block and grounds of Force Headquarters, Aykley Heads on 13th June, 2010. It should be a great day – and it is free – but see our article later for fuller details. By design we trust that this social bonding will prosper and enhance a better understanding between “the old and the new”. Talking of which, we are once again addressing pre retirement courses at Force H.Q. and we believe that this will enhance and facilitate a smoother transition from service to retirement.

Currently ongoing research, spearheaded by Jon Stoddart, is considering the feasibility of creating a Police Social Club in the Durham City area – pensioners are invited to contribute to this research with their views. Don’t miss this opportunity to share in the experience. There are many genuine new “green shoots” of cooperation which will become more apparent in the near future and contribute to the evolving relationships of pensioners and serving officers – yes, I think in future we can again proudly consider ourselves to be a part of the “family force” enhanced by a growing mutual respect, cooperation and above all, trust.

Further evidence of leading from the front has recently been shown in practical terms where Chief Constable Stoddart arrested a drunk driver and processed him through the legal system. He is also showing he is just as able and agile on his bicycle. Together with several other members of the Force, Jon is taking part in an arduous ride on his super duper bicycle for Charity. Now that’s what I call leading from the front!” He didn’t need the 97 page Home Office manual on safe cycling either!

There has been the inevitable but very sad demise of a number of retired officers and staff since our last publication. I don’t think that as humans, we can every readily accept the death of a relative, friend or colleague without a deep sense of loss and sadness. We always extend our sincere sympathies and condolences to all those who are grieving and mourning the passing of a loved one. As always, our branch of NARPO can be depended upon to offer support sympathy and guidance with the friendly assurance of confidentiality to members, relatives and friends when they need it most. We are there in support of your welfare and interests in retirement in sickness and in health.. The first point of call for advice is of course, our Welfare Officer, Mrs. Angie Crawford.

Details of contact for all officers are listed on the inside front page of the magazine.

Nothing generates and encourages success like success. We are massively encouraged by the growing enthusiasm of our membership in things NARPO. At our recent Annual General Meeting, which had the best attendance in many a year, we had no less than FIVE keen members all willing and able, each of whom volunteered to work for and serve the interests of the membership. Naturally they were enthusiastically accepted as members of the Committee. This has been a real “shot in the arm” for the Branch. The introduction of the new “blog” page (similar to a web page) on the computer internet is proving very popular and by updating it daily with latest news, interesting articles, supplemented by archived and accessible old photographs, a diary of events, the early announcements of the latest deaths of police officers and more cheerfully, the announcement of forthcoming events and activities, have all helped to raise the profile of Durham branch of NARPO.. You can access the site on the internet at Durhamnarpo.blogspot.com a lot of effort goes in to disseminating information to you – make my day and submit your anecdotes, experiences, photographs and letters for the Durham Peeler and the blog. You are part of living history- share it and be proud!

AlanS. Watson Editor

National Association Retired Police Officers (Durham Branch) Annual General Meeting Durham Indoor Bowling Club, Monday, 22nd March, 2010.

The Branch’s growing dynamic profile was rewarded by the pleasing attendance of over 30 NARPO members and Committee and a further five apologies for absence – easily the best turn out in many a year. We are now addressing Force Pre retirement courses and the Executive are actively promoting NARPO to retiring officers. I feel quite confident that the upward trend is gaining momentum as more pensioners are realising the advantages of being a member of our organization particularly in these uncertain times.

The Chairman’s thanked everyone for their attendance and gave a brief synopsis of notable recent activities of the Branch.

In the last year, there has been a genuine improvement in co-operation and understanding between the regular Force and NARPO, particularly on welfare issues. We now have regular amicable meetings with Executive Officers, (enthusiastically endorsed by C.C. Jon Stoddart) working hard together, initially in the launch of a revitalised and new Reunion Garden Party for all retirees and regular Force members (see article) New joint initiatives seem inevitable and are welcome.

A new independent Welfare Fund has recently been established. Angie Crawford our Welfare Officer successfully secured generous donations from ACC Michael Banks on behalf of the Executive and David Robinson on behalf of the Durham Federation, helping us to get it on to a firm financial footing. This is a further encouraging advance in our co-operation and cohesion of once again being considered part of a “family Force”. This new confidence and trust offers the opportunity to develop many more joint initiatives in future times.

Our special invited guest speakers, namely, Assistant Chief Constable Michael Banks, representing the Executive, Chief Superintendent Ian MacDonald of the Superintendents Association, Andrew Metcalfe, Chairman of Durham Branch, Federation and David Robinson, Secretary of the Federation, Each made a brief (“5 minutes max.!”), enlightening address to the developments within the Force from their perspective.

The public are continuing to express confidence in the Force with a feedback of some 85% expressing satisfaction. Actual police numbers have been reduced from 1740 to 1530 with the prospect of zero recruitment for two years ahead -despite an estimate that 40/50 officers will be retiring in each of those years…

Long Service is now defined as 20 years and medical retirements are to be more stringent. Police Support Officers recruitment however, is increasing and 27% are now female. Police staff members are now up from 700 to 920.

It has been decreed that the way forward is for collaboration between neighbouring Forces – sharing costly innovations and equipment – back towards regional policing?. I wonder what shape our Northern Police Service will be in 5 years. I bet you won’t recognise it if the political masters remain of the same mind set.

Further changes in Durham Constabulary include the amalgamation of Communications and Operations Departments; there are to be only 6 Chief Superintendents in the County; 11 Superintendents countywide, including 2 Uniform Super’s for the North and 2 Uniform Super’s for the South. Many fundamental changes in supervisory personalities are imminent with the retirement of no les than five of the current Chief Superintendents (all within a couple of months); a new Public Justice and Partnership Department is being developed and strategic and operational planning for the 2012 Olympics are now well under way.

Five new members were elected to serve on the 2010/11 Durham Branch Committee: Ray Jones; Martin Hall; Steve Heiniger; Tim Wilson and Bill Bramfitt, all of whom readily volunteered and this was appreciated!

Members with access to the computer internet, can now access a “blog” page (similar to a web site) recently designed and set up by Bob Brown and supervised and edited by your Chairman. It has up to date information on notification of deaths of retired officers, forthcoming events, articles and photographic files and YOU can make contributions and comments. It has everything to keep you right up to date and is evolving all the time. Durhamnarpo.blogspot.com. This facility is free & supplements Durham Peeler magazine. . Tony Storry, our North East Regional representative of the National Executive gave his brief but informative address later in the meeting- the policy priority, nationally will be to persuade Branches to accept responsibility and appoint representatives re. Welfare issues of members. Durham & Cleveland are already well organized. Injury on Duty awards continue to be a thorny subject, especially in Northumberland where all cases of reduction in pensions have been won on Appeal. NARPO are organizing Pre Retirement Course packages nationwide.

There is some thought of a National Police Helicopter concept – still being researched.

The general consensus was that the meeting had been very constructive, progressive, sociable and informative.

Durham Constabulary Retired Officers Social Engagement Survey Chief Constable Jon Stoddart is reinforcing a new dynamic approach towards social integration and interaction between officers of the Force and retired members. He is actively promoting a Social Engagement Survey questionnaire. I believe that the following précis is more likely to get the response that is being sought.

Please read through and a. let me have your views either by telephone, e mail, through the computer Durhamnarpo@gmail.com OR to the Corporate Communications Officer at Force H.Q tel. no. 0191 3752273, preferably before the 4th June, 2010 and where possible, I can collate your views and pass them on. Your comments remain confidential.

Remember, your views could really make a difference!

Socialising with colleagues outside of work.

Activities that may interest you:-

i Social interaction with ex-colleagues and/or current Durham Constabulary employees. ii Involvement in Durham Constabulary events and activities (e.g. Bike Wise; Fireworks display.) iii Organised social opportunities and events (social clubs, fun days, sporting events, social evenings) iv. If the force introduced more events and social opportunities – which would you support?

Social Clubs serving alcohol; Annual Reunion Events; Staff Family Fun Days; Charity Football Matches; Charity Fun Runs; Charity Sponsored Walks; Dining Club.

Police Social Clubs Probably the greatest negative impact on social integration in recent years was the enforced closure of Social Clubs on Police premises. The Executive are keenly pursuing a feasibility study with a view to acquiring a redundant licensed premises in either the Durham City area or Darlington area (Durham being more central) with a view to establishing a police social club where officers and staff (current & retired) can relax, socialise and unwind in a comfortable and safe environment (like we used to…). N.B. They will NOT be on Police properties.

The running of a police social club will incur running costs which in part would be financed through member subscriptions (Annual subs subject to further discussion later). The club qualifies for Charitable Status.

A prospective social club could provide a range of desirable facilities including Licensed bar; food facilities; entertainment & social evenings (Music licence essential) Live entertainment; indoor games facilities; possibly a children’s area and an outdoor recreational area.

The advantages of social clubs from years of previous experience include recreation, socialising activities, entertainment and potentially suitable location for group meetings e.g. NARPO Branch meetings.

I’m sure that morale will be improved too.

Northumbria Police have already gone down this path most successfully. Favourable feedback encourages us to enthusiastically promote these proposals on behalf of our membership. I do hope that you will take the time to respond. You may actively influence and enhance the future of pensioners’ social facilities and participation.

Alan S. Watson Keep up to date with the latest news from NARPO. Visit: www.durhamnarpo.blogspot.com

Engage Brain Before Operating Mouth – A cautionary tale.

Dear Alan,

A young couple moved into a new neighbourhood. The next morning while they are eating breakfast, the young woman watched their neighbour hanging the washing on the line in the back garden.

About one month later, the woman was surprised to see a nice clean wash on the line. She said to her husband: “Look, she has learned how to wash correctly. I wonder who taught her this” The husband said, “I got up early this morning and cleaned our windows!”

The latest Durham Peeler is absolutely the best yet. You go from strength to strength. Congratulations!!! Just to let you know the articles of most interest to us were Early morning raids on organized crime ; “Another Policeman’s Story”; “Beware Traffic Cameras”; the car jacking story (close to where Gordon and Paulette live, and closer to where they have a small business), George Hartley’s Christmas Story, David Gidley’s Pioneering Days in Research and Planning, “Alf & Goliath”; “Grace Haven Mercy Home” (of particular interest because we had the opportunity to visit Burma many years ago), “The Owl and the Pussycat”; “Post Mortems”; “Amusing Anecdotes,” “Farmhand to Chief Constable”; “Stroke !”; and “Don’t take life so seriously!” I also took the liberty of summarizing some of the information in the Peeler and sending it on to friends and family. It was just too good not to do so. So many many thanks again for sending us a copy.

Moral - What we see when watching others depends on the purity of the window through which we look.

Gordon & Ann Callender. Pace, Florida, U.S.A.

“That laundry is not very clean”, she said. “She doesn’t know how to wash properly!

Perhaps she needs better laundry soap.” Her husband looked on, but remained silent.

Every time her neighbour hung her washing out to dry, the young woman made the same comments.

She is NINETY EIGHT years old and still drives her own car...She writesDear Grand-daughter: The other day I went up to our local Christian book store and saw a “Honk if you love Jesus” bumper sticker. I was feeling particularly sassy that day because I had just come from a thrilling choir performance, followed by a thunderous prayer meeting, so I bought the sticker and put it on my bumper.

Boy, am I glad I did. What an uplifting experience that followed. I was stopped at a red light at a busy intersection, just lost in thought about the Lord and how good he is, and I didn’t notice that the light had changed. It is a good thing someone else loves Jesus because if he hadn’t honked, I’d never have noticed. I found that lots of people love Jesus!

While I was sitting there, the guy behind started honking like crazy and then he leaned out of his window and screamed, ‘For the love of God! Go! Go! Go! Jesus Christ, GO!’ What an exuberant cheerleader he was for Jesus! Everyone started honking! I just leaned out my window and started waving and smiling at all those loving people. I even honked my horn a few times to share in the love!

There must have been a man from Florida back there because I heard him yelling something about a sunny beach? I saw another guy waving in a funny way with only his middle finger stuck up in the air. I asked my young teenage grandson in the back seat what that meant. He said it was probably a Hawaiian good luck sign or something. Well, I have never met anyone from Hawaii, so I leaned out the window and gave him the good luck sign right back. My grandson burst out laughing. Why even he was enjoying this religious experience!!

A couple of the people were so caught up in the joy of the moment that they got out of their cars and started walking towards me. I bet they wanted to pray or ask what church I attended, but this is when I noticed the light had changed. So, I waved at all my brothers and sisters grinning, and drove through the intersection. I noticed that I was the only car that got through the intersection before the light changed again and felt kind of sad that I had to leave them after all the love we had shared.

So I slowed the car down, leaned out the window and gave them all the Hawaiian good luck sign one last time as I drove away. Praise the Lord for such wonderful folks!!

Dear Alan It was nice to read part of Paul Greener’s memoirs, in particular that of the Police dog jumping onto a local transport bus.

I was the handler in question on this occasion and the circumstances are accurately related by Paul. The dog was named Ross and had been chasing the criminal whom I had seen committing a robbery. The dog was able to run much faster than I- but “sod’s law” intervened-the bus pulled up at the junction, the door opened to afford the driver greater visibility in the prevailing evening fog and as the doors opened, Ross veered away from the criminal and jumped onto the bus (unseen by the driver- who then took off in the opposite direction), leaving the criminal to leg it away from the scene!

The force’s honour was regained by the actions of PC Peter Shepherd a traffic patrol officer who kept his eye on the criminal, caught him and made the arrest. (Thanks Peter) In defence of Ross, he had been a gift dog and was obviously used to vehicle travel as he would attempt to get in any car that had an open door. I did report the incident later to dog section supervision.

The reply ‘it couldn’t happen!’ but it did. You could not make something like this up.

Much good natured ribbing went on for a while and at least now I probably have a good idea where the bus tickets and time tables came from. Paul and I enjoyed a good partnership when working together and is nice to know that he kept anecdotes about the dog section. No doubt there will be more to come and will obviously be the cause of some smiles to other dog handlers.

David Muckle

Hello Alan, Well done for another very interesting magazine. I never knew you had been on the Mounted Branch!

“On the buses” gave me a good laugh!

I thought I might have been mentioned as an additional member (other force areas) or have I been sacked already so soon!

David Cromarty

Will write again soon, Love Grandma

Airport Security -the best idea yet?

Here’s a simple solution to all the controversy over full body scanners at airports Manufacture a security screening booth that you can step into that does not X-ray you.

It will however, detonate any explosive device you may have on you! A win-win for everyone, AND no argument about invasion of privacy or ethnic/racial profiling!!!

Just ask the Meerkat. “Simple ?!!”

Hi David, Thanks for your kind comments - sack cloth & ashes - I omitted you quite by accident from the additional members list - it will be rectified. Yes, I joined the “Mounted Branch” after leaving the job. I learned a new craft - making & carving rocking horses – I built a total of 16 medium & large ones altogether-over a period of seven years - some exported to Germany!

- That’s why the caricature on the editorial page is so - it was a present for my 60th birthday from number 1 son, Andrew(nine years ago). I use it in my editorials from time to time.

So, once again - you will be mentioned in dispatches in summer 2010 edition of the Peeler

Alan W.

Letter from the Editor to Gillian Pitcher Hello Gillian (and Jim of course) So far there has only been a trickle of info regarding your Dad and his brothers. I pass it on for what its worth:Alf Charlton says “Mrs Gillian Pitcher is quite correct in saying that Sydney Beckett was the Chief Constable’s driver. He transported Alec Muir all over the country as was the custom in those days. Sydney put in countless hours on duty with Alec and I would say he was the longest serving of all the Chief’s drivers. All the rest only lasted a few weeks......! Sgt. Fred Beckett served in Durham City and was in fact my Sergeant when I served there in 1951” Alan Campbell identifies the vehicle in the second photograph as a Lancia Prison Van purchased in 1928.

Whilst I am unable to identify the other officer with your Dad, it is known that P.C. 504 Collinson was one of only a handful of authorised drivers (the vehicle was a “pig” to drive). It had direct steering, making it a hazardous experience going round corners !I planning ahead was essential) It had a large phosphor bronze flywheel which made “cranking” the engine very difficult - most times it had to be “ bump” started Details outlined in page 26 of “Policing the Land of the Prince Bishops.”

Motor School, Hardwick Camp Sedgefield early1960s

Alan Watson

Graham Suddick explaining the inner workings of an engine. Alf Charlton giving his seal of approval.

DURHAM dining club.

The first meeting of Durham dining club is “on the calendar”- details as follows:Venue: Bowburn Hall Hotel.

Date: Wednesday, 29th September, 2010. 7pm for 7.45pm.

Cost: £25.00 Menu: TBD. I can tell you that it will be 5 course meal, to include wine and raffle.

Dress: Black tie Seating: Round tables of eight.

Eligibility All those who have served: Guests: Welcome (sorry no wives or girlfriends) Accomodation: 19 rooms available at special rates.

Please book directly with hotel. Tel No. 0191 3770311 Interested? Telephone 01913840405 or email harrycynthia@btinternet.com Whilst fully appreciative of all the NARPO publicity, it needs to be stressed that this is NOT a NARPO function, NOR is it intended to replicate the former officers’ mess.

Support to date from circulation on the Durham NARPO blog site has been encouraging. Ex colleagues from as far afield as Oxford, Bristol, and Sheffield will be attending –so come on you locals- support this function!! It is hoped that numbers will increase following this publication Invitations and menu will be circulated to prospective participants on 15th August 2010, for confirmation and payment

Harry Angus ******************* Your Health, Your Life. by 13th September, 2010.

Dear Alan,

I have recently had the text of a book entitled “Warriors in Fire Boots” – a tribute to gallantry and loss in the British Fire Service, accepted by a publisher, and wondered if you could give it a mention in the magazine when it comes on to book store shelves, later next year. Although the subject is, very obviously, the Fire Service rather than the Police Service, I do mention police officers on more than one occasion, including in my introduction, which I insert for your information. I also attach a piece on the award of the George Medal to men of the Metropolitan Police and the London Fire Brigade during the Blitz, both of which I hope you will find interesting. In general terms I hope that it might be of interest to serving and former members of other emergency services, as well as those with an interest in military history. Thanking you in anticipation.

Prevention is better than cure. By Tim Wilson

Arthur Lockyear MBE

I recently retired after 30 years service and I am now privileged to be one of the younger members of NARPO. During my last few months in the job I displayed several of the symptoms of prostate cancer and did nothing about it (it couldn’t happen to me!). When I retired I would make time to visit the doctor to have it checked out….

The readers may recall that Arthur Lockyear, son of the legendary Arthur Lockyear of Seaham Harbour, started his career as a police constable at Darlington, making a career change in favour of the fire service, where he excelled and has now retired. We send him our congratulations on his recent honour of the M.B.E. Thank you Arthur for your advance “taster” extracts of your forthcoming book. Your introduction and selected sections are interesting and I look forward to the finished publication. Please advise me of the price and publication date to pass

It took me four months after retirement before I actually made the visit and was immediately given a blood test which showed traces of blood in my urine. A lengthy series of questions later and the doctor was dismayed and frustrated as to why men who have served in the police and looked after the public do not look after themselves. No excuses or apologies-we appear to be among the worst ‘offenders’ and we should know better!

on to our readers. I shall do a fair review at that time. Good luck.

Alan S. Watson

Dear Editor – or should I say ‘allo Alan, The winter 2009 ‘Peeler reproduced a photograph of an earlier Whickham tug of war team back row: left to right. unknown., Tom White, Bill Burt, Alan Nelson, Jack ?, Arthur McKay. front row: left to right

Danny Ledger, Jimmy Gibson,(no relation) Jack Pirt, Tom Baxter.

I’ve been to see Arthur McKay who was one of the team (he is far right, back row) He still lives in the old police house at Greenside. He still has the original photo and from the clearer picture, I recognised Alan Nelson (who I had worked with at Whickham . He died several years ago) and Danny Ledger (also recently deceased) who I worked with and played football with at Consett around 1965. Where have all the years gone?

Les Gibson

Early treatment is important. Many prostate cancers grow slowly but others grow very quickly. The risk of prostate cancer increases with age. 70 men in England and Wales diagnosed with the disease each day!

If you experience ANY of the following symptoms – see a doctor and get them checked out……

Difficulty or pain in passing urine Having to rush to the toilet to pass urine Frequent visits to the toilet especially at night Starting and stopping while urinating Dribbling urine A feeling of not having emptied the bladder fully And less commonly…..

Blood in the urine or semen Impotence Pain in back, hips or pelvis Although further tests have shown that I do NOT have prostate cancer, (such a relief!) this was certainly a wake up call for me. I hope that sharing my personal experience, that someone may be persuaded to make an important decision. I would encourage any of our members who may be displaying any of these symptoms to visit the doctor at the earliest opportunity. It could save your life!

KING MEETS MAGGIE THATCHER.

Amusing anecdote vy the late Paul Greener

Sporting Memories - Frank Pickering

In 1969 I joined the dog section and my first police dog was called King who was full of character. In the family home he was very friendly, playful and an excellent pet but put him into a police dog van and his personality instantly changed. He could growl for eight hours out of the rear window and the severity of his bite was incredible. After being on duty at football matches he would prowl the house for up to two hours, snarling and challenging anything in his path that moved.

Felling Divisional Cricket Team 1956 (photo courtesy Frank Pickering)

Now, King did not take to shift work. If I was on quick change round he would be in a foul mood when I went to get him from his kennel. I always gave him a couple of calls before attempting to enter the kennel. King was the type of dog that arrested his own criminals, all I appeared to do was his paperwork. When in this mood I was certainly in no fear of being attacked or picked on, nobody and I mean nobody, could physically touch him, except me. King lived in the era of Maggie Thatcher’s reign. It was the run up to one of her national elections and Mrs. Thatcher was making a whistle stop tour of the country and The King’s Head in Darlington was one of her stops.

I was detailed to stand at the front door of the hotel with King and make sure that her entry and exit were unhindered, a simple enough job. On arrival a crowd had gathered. I approached the entrance. King began to realise that crowds meant fun and a possible bite. I sat him next to me on the shortest possible lead. Mrs. Thatcher’s black escorted car arrived.

Officers from Special Branch jumped out, the rear door was opened and Mrs Thatcher was guided towards the hotel entrance clutching her famous handbag. A bang of flashguns illuminated the street and King uttered a growl that originated deep from his bowel. I hung on to him as if my life depended on it. (Looking back it probably did.) I was safe, she had entered the building unbitten. Now all I had to worry about was the return journey.

It wasn’t long before a message was relayed to me that she was on her way. I again took up my stance with an even shorter lead on King. Mrs Thatcher swept passed me at a pace a jogger would have been proud of, but just before reaching the car, she stopped abruptly, spun round, faced me, shook my hand and said “thank you officer” and stroked King on the head.

King went silent, he looked up, stared at her and wagged his tail, albeit only once. Into the car she got and sped off down the road. I‘ve voted Conservative ever since.

Just when you think the world isn’t fair...

In 1986, Peter Davies (No, not our Peter Davies) was on holiday in Kenya after graduating from North western University. On a hike through the bush, he came across a young bull elephant standing with one leg raised in the air. The elephant seemed distressed, so Peter approached it very carefully.

He got down on one knee and inspected the elephant’s foot and found a large piece of wood deeply embedded in it. As carefully and as gently as he could, Peter worked the wood out with his hunting knife, after which the elephant gingerly put down its foot. The elephant turned to face the man, and with a rather curious look on its face, stared at him for several tense moments. Peter stood frozen, thinking of nothing else but being trampled. Eventually the elephant trumpeted loudly, turned, and walked away. Peter never forgot that elephant or the events of that day.

Twenty years later, Peter was walking through the Chicago Zoo with his teenaged son. As they approached the elephant enclosure, one of the creatures turned and walked over to near where Peter and his son Cameron were standing. The large bull elephant stared at Peter, lifted its front foot off the ground, then put it down. The elephant did that several times then trumpeted loudly, all the while staring at the man.

Remembering the encounter in 1986, Peter couldn’t help wondering if this was the same elephant. Peter summoned up his courage, climbed over the railing and made his way into the enclosure. He walked right up to the elephant and stared back in wonder. The elephant trumpeted again, wrapped its trunk around one of Peter legs and slammed his stupid ass against the railing, killing him instantly.

Probably wasn’t the same elephant!

Dear Alan, I may be able to identify some of the personnel in photographs published in the 90th Anniversary edition of the excellent Durham Peeler. What a good read. Can I refer to the photograph of the County Constabulary Driving Course, Police H.Q, 1946.The date is obviously incorrect because it shows HQ at Newton Aycliffe, but HQ didn’t move from Durham until January, 1947.

The personnel in the front row left to right; P.C. Eric Fryer, P.C. Arthur Nash, Sgt. Adam Purdy (father of Supt.

Barry Purdy) Supt. Billy Hogg, Ch. Insp. F. Corner, P.C. Cecil Crawford, P.C. Joe Millican, P.C. Syd Elliott, P.C. (Unknown-not a student), I recognise several of the students although I can’t put a name to any of them.

Alf Charlton

standing:

Dick Hadlow; Tom Lawson; Alan Graham; Bill Appleton; Tom Firth; Ken Blain; Frank Pickering; Jack Bates sitting:

Norman Trotter; John Hepple; Bob Westgarth; George Bates

Whickham Division Football Team 1962 (photo courtesy Frank Pickering) back row

H. Morton; F.Pickering; J. Davies; H. Withycombe; J. Dent; D. Scott. front row

J. Hepple; M. Magee; E. Clark;

Whickham Division.

Tug o’ War Teams 1962

(photo courtesy Frank Pickering) back row:

D. Benton; G. Preece; J. Pearson ; J. Hepplewhite. front row:

D. Swan; F. Pickering; K. Walton; A. Nelson; P. Moore. sitting :

J. Gibson.

The Durham County Serious Incident Squad

Feeling Champion Chris Jordison’s Sporting moments

1959-1974

On 27th November, 2009 the Durham Times reported on the final reunion of previous members of the Special Incident Squad commemorating the 50th anniversary of its formation. The headline proclaimed somewhat dramatically “How the Elite Police of their day fought crime”. In those pioneering days, superlatives really were befitting “the elite” - unique, stylish, dynamic, innovative, effective & efficient.

In his Chief Constable’s report to the Police Authority in 1958, Mr. Alec A. Muir laid the foundations to what was arguably the most ambitious, successful and long lasting advancements in mobile policing investigations.

Serious Investigation Squad “I am considering

the establishment of special squads of police officers to attend and investigate all serious incidents, including serious road accidents and to begin with we will operate one such squad in the County. This squad to operate efficiently will need to be mobile. There is at present one van equipped with scientific aids equipment at H.Q. is used by specialist officers. The new investigations squad will require a utility type of vehicle to carry both personnel and equipment. The Austin 152 Omnivan appears ideal for this purpose. I ask for authority to purchase one utility vehicle, fitted with wireless, at a cost not exceeding £850.0s.0d.

To operate efficiently, this vehicle will need to be fitted with cupboards, shelves and equipment, with various accessories. This will entail expenditure of approximately £750.0s.0d. A detailed list of accessories was furnished with this report and includes: MPP camera case and accessories, Kodak View camera, Plate Holders Fingerprint Camera, a comprehensive range of scientific aids equipment, automotive tools, carpentry tools, a 100 feet tape, a tape recorder and a typewriter. Additionally, a heavy duty spotlight and stand, P.A. equipment, protective “Scotchlite” overalls and jackets, axes, crowbars, sling chains, a shovel and even signal flares”. (bold pioneering days in a very progressive police force!)

Chester le Street Police Football Team 1979 (photo courtesy Chris Jordison) Northern Police League Champions & Aynsley Cup Winners Back. to r.

Matty Pearson (Manager); Brian Henderson; Mick Forsyth; Nigel Davison; Les Hardy; Nigel Miller; Phil Grieveson Front l to r.

Ian MacKenzie; Paul Ewart; Brian Johnson; Malcolm Magee; Terry Ditchburn; Chris Jordison; Tommy Chatton

Austin 152 Omnivan. Serious Incident Van 1963

Final of Great Aycliffe Town Cricket Knockout Cup 1977 Darlington Police Cricket Team v U.M.M. Newton Aycliffe (photo courtesy Chris Jordison) for 6 wickets.

U.M.M. 68 for 8 wickets Police.106

Alec Muir’s philosophy was that there was no such thing as an accident. In his view, all happenings were the result of some “action” or “inaction” resulting in an incident occurring. Hence the Serious Incident Squads, the forerunner to the Accident Investigation Units – most recently known as Collision Investigation Units. Amusingly the acronym could have been S.A.S. instead of S.I.S. On reflection, the present investigative unit acronym C.I.U. may have been more attuned to some of the members of the earlier squads! No names volunteered – to protect the innocent….

In the fifteen years that the Squads operated, a comprehensive range of serious incidents were undertaken over a period of 8 years, including the investigations of 1,355 deaths on Durham County roads and 72 cases of Murder in addition to high caseloads, scenes of crimes, vehicle examinations, inputs at Coroners Courts and a wide range of criminal investigations. Most notable events attended by various crews, included the Angus Sibbett Murder, the Seaham Lifeboat Disaster and the Crawleyside (Stanhope) fatal accident which claimed the lives of a number of Blackhall Colliery Bowling Club members. All of this without protective clothing, overtime, seat belts, M.O.T. Certificates, no compulsory helmets, Health & Safety at Work regulations, not to mention the “risk assessment”. White paper suits, plastic & polythene gloves were not invented in those days.

Those who have been members of the squads shared an enthusiasm and high degree of job satisfaction and above all, camaraderie.

Darlington Police Football Team 1974

(photo courtesy Chris Jordan) Back row: l to r.

Terry O’Connor: Brian Hope: Dave Hutchinson; Barry Peart; George Harrison; Chris Handley; Mick Kirk; Dave Lee; Kevin Boddy.

From the humble beginnings of one squad using a very well equipped Austin 152 Omnivan, within eight years, the strength of the squads had expanded to one Detective Chief Inspector, 4 Detective Sergeants and 40 Detective Constables.

Progressing through those years, the fleet expanded to become 6 Humber Super Snipe Estate cars and one Triumph 2000 Estate car each one most eye catching and majestic – they were “the business”. Combining stylish vehicles, very experienced and technically skilled personnel and comprehensive equipment proved to be a marvellous advancement in the

Back row: Umpire (?); David Waterfall Brown; Adrian (?) ; Gerry Smith; Geoff Whittingham; Frank Hills; Ray Clish; Umpire(?)

Front row: Ian Bestford; Dave Lee; Tommy Firth (Manager); Dave Carroll; Chris Jordison; Bill Hills.

Front row l to r Dave Keenan; Harveyb Harris; Phil Robinson; Chris Jordison; Keith Poulton Sgt Jack Blair with Brantly Helicopter S.I.S. Humber Super Snipe in foreground

A Lesson Learned

I have just had a great week watching a T.V. programme “Big Cats in the Masai Mara. I have never been there but I have been in “The Serengetti” (The land of endless space) which is on the south bank of the Mara River. To see all of the wild animals and birds is really a wonderful experience. However, there is another side to Africa worthy of mention – the people! Now it has been said that in measurable financial terms, they have nothing. In relation to food availability and resources they have not much more and very little life expectancy… Despite these impediments they are happy and willing to share what little they have- including respect for others. This is bred into them from a very early age and can sometimes “wrong foot” an unsuspecting white man who may be caught unawares.

The following event occurred at the village of Idodi, in the Iringa District of Tanzania, on Monday, 4th December, 199. Dawn Hartley was to attend a meeting at the said village of Idodi where she was to hand over the keys to the V.S.O.’s house, to the head man Mzee Kalinga. The V.S.O. was now leaving the area after a year working with the villagers. It can be a lonely life for a white man here – particularly if he cannot speak Swahili….There is also a need to become part of the people, although some white men are unable to achieve this status and although treated with respect, they are never really loved and accepted.

I went along with that girl and her ‘man, James Matabiilwa to the village. It was very hot and while everyone else went to carry out the transfer business, I sat on the simple couch in the V.S.O. house and of course, fell asleep – despite the attention of the biting flies and all the usual creepy crawlies. I awoke to see little black faces with big white eyes peering through the door and window. Some of the village children had come to look at “Baba Dawn” (the father of Dawn)….

I stood up, in my khaki shirt and shorts and walked out of the door on to the veranda – they backed off… Some of the children were wearing only a dirty little shirt, no trousers, some with what passed for shirt or trousers whilst yet others didn’t even have a shirt... They were all staring intently at this big white man with his hairy arms and legs, wondering if he would speak or what else he might do. I knelt down to bring myself to their level and just looked at them. One of the little urchins came forward and touched me on the brow, saying “Shikamore Mzee”. I was then “Shikamored” by all in turn and to my eternal shame, I made the wrong reply. I replied to the common greeting “Habari” as opposed to the response to the very high respect they had bestowed on me – apparently I should have said “Marahabba”. TOO LATE! They all looked at each other and I could see the pity in their eyes for this big white man with so little education and so much ignorance, standing among the clever and respectful children in the heat and dust of their poor village in the Great Rift Valley of Southern Tanzania…

Thanks George for that humbling and graphic little story. More please for next issue ‘from out of Africa’? (Editor)

Doesn’t time fly?

investigation of serious incidents of all kinds.

by George Hartley

David Duncan

Although it doesn’t seem so, it’s nearly three years since I retired from my last posting at Darlington.

I took 6 months off to work on an extension to our house, strange how we managed with three bedrooms when our two boys were growing up then suddenly needed another two when we got three grand-daughters!.

I though the idea was to down-size later in life. Still, the addition of a study gave me somewhere to escape to when the ‘other half’ is watching the myriad of soaps or reality programmes on the box.

February 2008 saw me start working for the Highways Agency as a Traffic Officer (HATO). You have probably seen our black and yellow liveried 4x4’s patrolling the motorways. Formed in 2004, one of the aims was to relieve the police of the mundane tasks of dealing with minor collisions and obstructions on the road and at the same time trying to keep traffic flowing. It was always my ambition when, due to an enforced move from HQ Traffic in the eighties, that I would return. Unfortunately it was not to be during my Police service. For some time if you wore glasses you couldn’t work traffic, strange as it meant you should have 20/20 vision!.

With the agency, I work out of the old North Yorkshire Police post at Barton and primarily cover from Burtree (junction 58) down to Wetherby (junction 46) although I could go as far as Kingston Park on the A1 to the north and the M1 to the south. It was quite a relief to find an almost complete lack of paperwork in my new job, just a single A4 sheet if damage is caused to roadside furniture (crash barriers/signs etc.). Even then it’s just a case of filling in a few boxes.

Some may ask why I work rather than just enjoy my retirement? The reasons I give is that (a) I don’t play golf, (b) there is only so much gardening/DIY to be done and (c) the extra money is nice to give us the quality of life we like and the ability to just get up and go away whenever we want. I’m only in my mid fifties and feel too young to sit at home and watch day time TV! Maybe in a few years time I will hang up my boots and enjoy a more relaxed lifestyle. If anyone is retiring in the next couple of years I heartily recommend it.

The reorganisation of the northern forces in 1974 resulted in the disbandment of the Serious Incident Squad, to be superseded by the Crime Support Unit in Durham Constabulary.

Danny Cartilege & Dennis Cullen SIS crew members.

Sgt. Ces Crawford with SIS Humber Super Snipe and young admirer.

On Friday, 13th May, 1988, the O.A.S.I.S. (Old Association of Serious Incident Squad) was formed at a meeting in the Amenity Block at H.Q. Gary Waine was appointed as Chairman, David Baker as Secretary and Gordon Bacon as the Treasurer. There were 42 members attending and a further 17 forwarded their apologies. It was decided that the group would meet twice per year for a good social meal and a general exchange of anecdotes, reminiscences and of course “to put the world to rights”. These meetings continued for a number of years until as a result of demographic changes, not to mention ‘anno domini’, it was decided to wind down on a high note. No one wanted to be known as the “last man standing.” The final meeting of O.A.S.I.S. was at the Queen’s Head Hotel, Gilesgate, Durham City, on 18th November 2009, appropriately the 50th Anniversary of the inception of the S.I.S. 21 members attended. Chairman Jack Fidiam, Secretary/Treasurer Gary Waine, Ken Gaffney, George Bennison, Hugh Geddes, Mick Hudson, Eddie Kirby, Hedley Robinson, David Baker, Ian Jamieson, David Grey, Patrick (Paddy) Farrell, Brian Mahon, Dennis Dunhill, Ron Bradley, Malcolm Craig, Alan Rutherford, Bob Hall, Ray Allinson, Gordon Bacon and Brain McDonough.

Jack Blair. Durham County Constabulary’s First High Flyer

The summer 2009 issue of the Durham Peeler ran a short article on Durham’s first helicopter trials on page 22. The 1962 Chief Constables’ Conference (A.C.P.O) held in Torquay, witnessed a display of potential uses of the helicopter in police work. Durham County’s Chief Constable, Alec A. Muir was then Chairman of the ACPO Research Committee, which ensured that the trials of the Brantly helicopter, registration G-ARZ1 was delivered to Headquarters at Aycliffe on 6th November, 1962.

The helicopter and its pilot, Dick Dorman, a Canadian pilot employed by ‘Heliconair Ltd.’ were only available for limited number of hours each week, Sergeant Jackie Blair, a wartime R.A.F. Aircrew Sergeant was selected to be the police observer on operations. Together they were to become the first helicopter air support unit in Britain. No searchlights, video camera or thermal imager! Essentially, only daylight searches, using unstabilised binoculars and a portable police radio (the mind boggles).

Flying operations over Durham and the North Riding of Yorkshire were generally Thursdays and Fridays – to ensure that at least part of the time was spent escorting the highly vulnerable armoured cash transit vehicles to and from banks on factory paydays!

The Home Office typically soon declared that the full costs of future flying operations would be at the expense of Durham County rate payers due to a shortfall in their budget (sound familiar?).

Naturally, faced with this unexpected withdrawal of central funds at short notice, the scheme was abandoned.

John George (Jackie) Blair went on to enjoy a distinguished career, serving and rising to the rank of Chief Inspector and for many years was a member of N.A.R.P.O. Durham Branch Committee Sadly he died on 31st March, 2010 Thanks for the memories and your contributions Jackie

Syndicate 237. Formed April, 1961 (Still going strong) (Fifty Years or bust!) by Brian Snaith

In April, 1961 twenty four young men from all walks of life and parts of County Durham County made their way to No. 2 District Police Training Centre at Newby Wiske Hall, North Yorkshire and the reason for this migration? Mr. Alec Muir, Chief Constable of Durham County Constabulary had selected them to undergo the thirteen weeks training that would enable them to become Police Officers in his Force.

The first meeting of these young men was to say the least, filled with apprehension and awe. None of them knew each other or what was about to take place in their new surroundings. They soon overcame their shyness and commenced the important process of bonding. “Where are you from?” and “What did you do before joining the Police?” seemed to be the most frequently asked questions and the responses formed the basis of early conversations.

Their first official introduction to the Training Centre and Newby Wiske Hall was by an address by a Sergeant in the assembly hall where he introduced us to Chief Superintendent Hallhead, the Training Centre Commandant. Having welcomed the recruits, he introduced the training staff, before giving a brief outline of the thirteen week long programme and introduced Sergeant Drown who was to be their instructor for the duration of the course.

Dear Mr. Watson, The enclosed picture was taken in the heyday of Aycliffe as the County police H.Q. and is of workshop staff and drivers in the late 50’s (or early ‘60s?). Second left in the front row (hands in pockets) is my father William Henry Young of Durham (known as Harry). On the left of the picture is Bill Edwards, VIP chauffer for the Lord Lieutenant and High Sheriff. I also remember the chap in the centre of the picture visiting Dad when he was ill.

Dad was a coach painter by trade and worked for the police from the early 1950s until his retirement in 1968. As his health began to fail, he was relieved of the rigours of garage work and transferred to uniform civilian driving duties. He was one of the bus and van drivers who transported personnel morning and evenings between Durham police station and Aycliffe. For the rest of his day, he carried out courier runs throughout the county. He died in 1972 aged 69.

Syndicate 237C as they were to become known, was unique, comprised of all Durham County recruits. Other syndicates were an amalgam of recruits from diverse forces of the No. 2 District, including British Transport Commission Police. The training programme was to be intensive and would include examinations at the end of every four weeks – with ‘home leave’ of 36 hours after each examination (except for those men detailed for duty). The recruits were then given a brief conducted tour of their ‘new home’ each allocated his or their room(s) for the duration of training.

In the other picture, Dad is with a colleague (name unknown) and a Commer personnel carrier used in the Durham/Aycliffe run.

It had been a pretty exhausting first day with lots to remember – thank goodness for the time table provided….The remainder of the day was taken up familiarising oneself with the buildings, studying the time table, polishing boots and pressing uniforms for the very next day’s parade before lights out was called.

Over the next thirteen weeks there was never a dull moment, with foot drills, lectures, P.T., life saving training in Northallerton swimming baths, cross country runs, practical police exercises and lots of frustrations…

Apart from the programme work, other tasks about the buildings and gardens were always ongoing, not to mention the odd night duties to do too! Some even managed to have a pint or two in the ‘school bar. It was not all work…. on one occasion, a dance in the training school assembly hall was arranged, where the students entertained a group of young ladies from the Ripon Training College.

The day of the final examinations both written and practical soon arrived and after the results were disclosed, the individual postings to Divisions in the Durham County area were allocated and announced.

It may seem like just yesterday, but 49 years have elapsed since that tentative first meeting and in the intervening years, few of the fellows’ paths ever crossed again. Some left the police service voluntarily, some left through ill health and sad to say, some through untimely death. Several members of the syndicate achieved high rank and two even made it to the National Police Staff College at Bramshill.

Bob Sheppard contacted all of the original members of the syndicate and suggested a re-union of 237C Syndicate to mark the 25 years of service. The venue for the re-union was to be the Ramside Hotel, Durham in April, 1986. Of the original twenty four, eighteen members, including the Syndicate Instructor attended the dinner – some having travelled many miles.

To see so many of the old syndicate members together again was inevitably pleasing and old friendships re-kindled again.

Every five years since that first Re-union Dinner, many of the ‘old faces’ have traditionally gathered together again although, sadly, the numbers have declined, mostly through ill health problems but those who have made it still enjoy good “crack”, good company and a good meal in pleasant and comfortable surroundings.

The next re-union of 237C members marking the 50th Anniversary of joining Durham County Constabulary will be held in April, 2011 and all members whether you have attended previous re-unions or not are invited to attend the dinner. All you have to do is contact Bob Sheppard on 01740653092.

Of the original twenty four members, Barry Robinson and Bill Atkinson were killed in Road Traffic Accidents, Paul Robson was medically retired, Bob Brown, Bill Lisle and Frank Miller all resigned (Frank Miller emigrated to Canada where he worked as a joiner) and Russ Elliott, among others, died a few years ago. Recently I have learned that Harry

became a patrol car driver.

Other Durham police friends I recall from my youth (74 now) include the (late) Deputy Chief Constable W.E. (Billy) Hogg who was a mere sergeant when I first knew him. I was a childhood friend of his daughters Kathleen and Maureen. Then there was the popular Joe Millican in Highwood Terrace, near the New Inn, Durham and Dennis Moir, who lived in Hallgarth Street. From my days at Durham Johnston School, I remember classmate Syd Coulson of Bowburn who joined the force and

The wedding photo is from 1923 and shows my Uncle Ted and Auntie Olive who were married at St. Oswald’s Church, ~Durham. E.H. (Ted) White was a Londoner who served in the Dardanelles during the 1914-18 War and came to Durham to join the police.

His best man was James Nunn who may have been a colleague.

Ted served at West Auckland& Bishop Auckland during the Second World War and finally at Birtley where he retired as Inspector. Ted was a keen cricketer and a bit of a demon bowler for both Durham City and the police in the 1920s and 30s.

Very best wishes David Young

Stepping Out with “The Over the Hill Gang” Steve Heiniger

The “Over the Hill Gang” met for the first time at 8.30am on Wednesday, 30th December, 2009 at the Banatyne’s Gym car park, Riverside, Chester le Street. The objective was to set out, travel to Rothbury in Northumbria and enjoy a good day’s walking. Quite an ambitious start for a group of old “has been” retired policemen and old enough to know better (you may be thinking?) There again by jumping to such conclusions would be presumptuous - the personnel joining me in this adventure were:” Big” John Bell, Colin Appleby; Ian “Matty” Knight; Tim Wilson and Me (all ex Durham coppers) plus Phil Veitch (ex Durham) and on the “wind down towards retirement in Cleveland. Six good and fairly healthy men I’m sure you will agree! All of whom purport to be fit and experienced climbers (not ‘social climbers’- well, that may be stretching it a little).

Wise isn’t too well these days. Our kindest thoughts are with him & Mavis, his wife.

The twenty four young men, in order ascending order of police “collar numbers” were: P.C. 1053 William Atkinson; P.C. 1141 John G. Bass; P.C. 1184 Robert Brown; P.C. 1281 Russell Elliot; P.C.1284 John Gillson; P.C. 1285 Richard Hunter; P.C. 1286 John Knox; P.C. 1287 William Lisle; P.C. 1288 Francis Milner; P.C. 1289 Barry Robinson; P.C. 1290 Brian Snaith; P.C. 1291 Gordon West; P.C. Brian Byrne; P.C. 1293 Randolph Walton; P.C. 1294 Michael Bell; P.C. 1295 Frederick Farley; P.C. 1296James Grainger; P.C. 1297 Michael Grieve; P.C. 1298 Peter Harrison; P.C. 1299 John Johnson; P.C. 1300 Paul Robson; P.C. 1301 Robert Sheppard; P.C. 1303 John Chesney Brighouse;

Just to be sure, I enlisted three fellow members of the Northumberland National Park Mountain Rescue team, Angus McGarry, Jim Cowan and Steve Hesletine. All four of us are trained and experienced Mountain Rescue Leaders. Well, you can’t be too careful with a bunch of pensioners! Now I felt more confident that we could survive the rigours of a snowbound Northumbrian landscape.

A deep layer of snow had built up on the approach to the Rothbury car park. Colin was a great help here by giving Tim the benefit of his advanced driving experience – whilst the rest of us pushed the car for the first 100 metres. Phil Veitch stood too close to the rear wheels and his clothes and complexion benefited from an unwelcome spray of slush – well what can you expect of a Cleveland copper? John Bell then showed practical leadership skills and hitched Tim’s car behind his 4 x 4 and towed him for the last mile to the car park…

In the modern idiom, we carried out a risk assessment, a briefing about the route, equipment and safety. “Any questions chaps?” The “wrinklies” soon sorted themselves out- youngest and fastest in the lead and the old and the balding, bringing up the rear – one muttering “Wish I’d brought my poles.” Who was where? I will not tell! I was sworn to secrecy.

We came out of the woods onto the Simonside, heading across open moorland to Tosson Hill (highest hill in the area).

Angus, Jim and Steve became the pathfinders setting a trail in the snow for the rest of us to follow. We eventually arrived at a trig point of Tosson Hill where we took in the spectacularly bleak views of a white Northumberland with a back drop of dark grey skies and a biting easterly wind. The weather conditions were getting worse and we set off for the safety of the woods about a mile away, where we sheltered from the elements and tucked in to a well deserved lunch.

Once fortified, we set off on the final leg of the “ramble” making slow progress in the knee deep snow, passing Simonside once again and along the track to the wooded car park where Colin provided tea and coffee for the cold and tired wanderers.

I hope he will continue to volunteer his catering services in the future.

Throughout the day, the “crack” and the camaraderie were top notch. The route was about 6.5 miles of what would usually be easy and enjoyable going. On this particular day it was really tough!

Back row l to r: John Johnson; Paul Robson; Frank Milner; Gordon West; Russ Elliot; Brian Snaith; Andy Walton

Our group have notionally agreed that we should organize a pleasant walk once a month, with pleasant company. Moaners and miserable sods need not apply!! Those genuinely interested in joining our happy band should contact: Steve Heiniger. e mail sgh13@live.co.uk Tim Wilson e mail wils1376@yahoo.co.uk Colin Appleby e mail Appleby.colin@btinternet.com Walks have yet to be planned for 2010 but include walking themes such as Battlefields; Castles, Reiver historical; Roman historical and Crashed Aircraft scenes and ‘owt else’ anyone can suggest.

Middle row: Peter Harrison; Dick Hunter; Bill Lisle; Fred Farley; Bob Brown; John Gillson; Harry Wise; John Knox; Bob Sheppard.

Front row; Ches. Brighouse; Barry Robinson; Jim Grainger; Bryan Byrne; Sgt. Bill Drown; Malcolm Grieve; Michael Bell; Alfie Bass; Bill Atkinson

Keep up to date. Latest news from NARPO. Visit www.durhamnarpo.blogspot.com

Highly Commended Cadet

by Brian H. Turner. Det.Supt.(Rtd)

I was appointed to Durham County Constabulary as a police cadet clerk in November, 1950, attached to the Traffic and Communications Department Administration Office, at Headquarters, Aycliffe. I worked with P.C. Charlie Brown and civilian employees (typists): Mary Burke (later married P.C. Jack Kirtley [Dog Section]) and Audrey Scott (later married to P.C. Jack Fiddiam).

Police supervision comprised: Head of Department, Superintendent Harry Precious, Chief Inspector Gilbert Jarvis (Accident Prevention), Chief Inspector Jimmy Jackson (i/c Operations), Inspector Lawrie Lee, and Sergeant George Hall. Accident Prevention Department and the Motor School formed part of the Department.

The Force had just purchased a fleet of BSA Bantam 125cc motor cycles and a lot of my work was in the documentation and issue of these motorcycles to detached beat officers throughout the county. I recall BSA Ltd., sponsoring and supplying BSA Bantam motorcycles in Trials specification for use in Police Cross Country Time Trials competitions. The trials team riders included P.C. Jack Broadbridge, Alan Vickers, Alf Charlton, Jim Bailes, Billy Thom, and Tommy Minns who practiced their skills on the large greasy mounds covering the air raid shelters and silos on Aycliffe Trading Estate to the rear of T & C Department..

In the year 1951, before the days of television…. rationing of food and commodities had not long ended and money was in short supply. You could not just walk into a garage to order or buy a new motor car or motor cycle – there was a long waiting list and in consequence everybody took great care of their vehicles. Some recall them to have been the good old days?

It was about 9.30pm on a very cold clear January night in 1951 that I left the Welfare Community Hall in Station Road, Sherburn Village, with a pal, Billy Barrass. We had spent the evening playing snooker, billiards and skittles. Looking across the road to the heavily frosted wide grass verge, opposite the hall, I saw two young men with as BSA Bantam 125cc motor cycle. The bike was laid on its side, with the engine revving harshly as the pair were trying to pick it up.

At first I thought there had been an accident and went over to them to see if they were alright. It struck me that neither of them was wearing any motorcycle clothing or gloves on such a very cold night.

The motorcycle looked brand new and the registration plate was also new and I instinctively knew that it wasn’t theirs. I stood astride the front wheel to hide the registration number plate, took hold of the handlebars and asked them who owned the ‘bike. The one holding the handlebars assured me that it was his and promptly lurched the motor cycle forward and stalled! I pressed him further and he told me that he had owned the motorcycle for a few months, they had travelled from Durham, but he was unable to remember the registration number. I asked him how the other man had managed to ride on the motorcycle when there was no pillion seat fitted. He ignored my question and kick started the engine and tried to get it into gear, shouting to the other man to jump up behind him – which he did.

I shouted to my pal, Billy, to go to the nearby police houses for assistance, whilst simultaneously trying to twist and pull at the handlebars to stop the rider driving off. The engine was being revved very hard and the gears were grinding.

The rider punched, pulled and head butted me as the ‘bike began to move forward. I was trying to hold it back by the handlebars and thankfully, it stalled again- otherwise had it continued to lurch forward on full revs, I could have been left with a very high pitched voice…!

As I continued to struggle with them, they jumped off the motorcycle, pushed it over and I ended up on the grass with the machine lying on my leg! The two of them ran off, making their escape on to a United service bus, travelling in the direction of Durham City. I wheeled the motorcycle to P.C. Leslie Atkinson’s house (the local bobby) and told him what had happened. It turned out that the vehicle had been stolen from Durham City the day before.

Some time later, I was contacted by a very keen Detective Constable, Jack Finlay of Durham CID. He was investigating a Robbery with Violence crime that had taken place about two hours before my confrontation with the men on the stolen motorcycle.

can remember class rooms being set up in the most unlikely places such as storerooms, medical rooms and in my own case, an unused room in the NAAFI shop, complete with bars on the windows!

In February 1968, I learned that on completion of my secondment I would be posted to Unit Beat Policing Duties in Peterlee, which also involved a change of residence from Peterlee to a police house in Wingate.

It seemed illogical to move from Peterlee, where I was about to work, to Wingate, which was some considerable distance further away from my station and then have to travel back into the area where I was already living. I asked for my proposed change of residence to be re-considered but was disappointed to be told that my request was refused on the grounds that I was required to occupy a police house instead of incurring rental for the council house I currently occupied.

By coincidence a short time later, the then Chief Constable of Middlesbrough, Ralph Davison, was Inspecting Officer at a passing out parade of recruits at Dishforth and during the course of a conversation with him, he learned of my imminent return to my Force and the disappointment I felt. He suggested that I might consider transferring to the proposed new Teesside Constabulary, which would come into being on 1st. April that year where, in view of the large numbers of vacancies, promotion to the next rank was almost guaranteed. As there was to be no police housing policy, he pointed out the added attraction of

buying one’s own house in an area of one’s own choice and thereafter leading a settled existence.

After much soul searching and discussion it seemed that a complete change of direction was the best way forward so I applied for and was accepted for transfer to Teesside Constabulary with effect from 1st. April.

My secondment to Dishforth ended on 8th. March so I filled in three weeks at Peterlee on Town Sergeants’ duties. On my first night shift, 12mn to 8am, on 11th.

March I found that I had no P.Cs. to supervise, a not too uncommon situation which happened on at least four other occasions so I was left to patrol the town by myself. Even at full strength I can’t recall any more than two P.Cs being on duty at any one time, but fortunately the monotony was broken by occasional charge office duties or prosecuting at court.

It was with great sadness that my long association with Durham Constabulary came to a close on 31st.

March 1968 and despite the circumstances which influenced my transfer, I will always hold my ‘parent’ force in the highest esteem and affection. My move to Teesside Constabulary brought to an end my nomadic wanderings, involving a change of house six times in five years, and purchase of my own property a short while later gave stability to family life. Promotion to Inspector also followed shortly after my move. Other promotions followed thereafter and while grateful for the challenges and opportunities given to me by my new force, later to become Cleveland Constabulary, I feel that any success I enjoyed was largely attributable to the earlier education I received in Durham.

The I.P.A. DIAmonD JubIlee. 60th Anniversary Celebrations, 2010.

To celebrate the 60th anniversary of the formation of the I.P.A. a wide range of events are being organised up and down the country. I have been drafted onto the National Committee to assist in organising various events particularly around the north east & we anticipate that the Durham & Cleveland IPA Branch will be swamped with volunteers

Friendship Week .Our programme of events starts Sunday 1st August when we meet our visitors and escort them to the

Marriott Royal County Hotel their base and accommodation for the week. In the course of the week, local IPA hosts will be giving guided tours of both the Cathedral and the Castle; a Civic Reception by the Mayor of Durham; a coach trip to York Minster and the Jorvick Centre; a day out at Beamish Museum; the Gala Theatre to see “Beauty & the Beast”; The Metro Centre; an IPA meal in Durham Cathedral-entertained by the Durham Constabulary Police Band; visit to “Tall Ships” extravaganza at Hartlepool Marina and finally a Dinner & Dance in the Three Tuns Hotel.

4 Peak Co-ordinated Hill Walks : Sunday, 12th September, 2010

This is not a challenge but a “walk and talk” all starting at approximately the same time from four diverse venues Ben Nevis (Scotland); Slieve-Donard (Northern Ireland); Snowdon (Wales); and Scafell Pike, (Cumbria).

I am designated to be the IPA co-ordinator for Scafell Pike. I and the other three co-ordinators will arrange an agreed time when each of the four peak walking groups will leave their respective bases simultaneously.

Anyone interested in making one of these walks needs to email appropriate co-ordinator at one of the e mail addresses below. Please make your application early. Logistically and for safety purposes, we need to have an accurate record of each and every one of the walkers who will be participating and at which location.

The email addresses are :-.. slieve-donard@ipa-uk.org

snowdon@ipa-uk.org

scafell-pike@ipa-uk.org

ben-nevis@ipa-uk,org

Gary Waine

Another Policeman’s Story

Moving On…

By Ken Thurlbeck

My short stay at Shotton was interrupted by another six week Student Instructors’ Course at Newby Wiske at the beginning of 1966. The Director of Studies was Inspector Jack Norris and my companions from Durham were Insp. Alec Dawkins and Sgts. Barry Rutherford, Tom Tate and George Walker. Like the first S.I. Course I attended, it was not easy but this time I was more successful and qualified for recall to a District Police Training Centre as a Grade II Law Instructor.

I returned to my normal duties for about four weeks and on 1st. March, a particularly cold day with heavy snow falling and deep drifts on the ground, I received a message to ring the Stores Department at Aycliffe.

On doing so I was asked to return my quilted lining as soon as possible as they were for use by operational personnel only. Standing there feeling cold, wet and thoroughly miserable I couldn’t feel more ‘operational’ than I felt at that moment and said so, quite forcibly.

I was told by a storeman that I was being seconded to the District Training Centre on 7th. March, hence the request for my quilted lining - so much for protocol and lines of communication.

The storeman’s information was confirmed by the Divisional Commander, Ken England, a little later and my days at Shotton Colliery came to an end. From a work point of view my short stay was quite rewarding but having had mixed feelings about the area where we lived, I was not sorry when we moved later that month to a new council house at Peterlee.

This was a time when recruitment to the Police Service was at a very high level and as Newby Wiske was unable to accommodate all probationer training requirements, overflow or detached wings were established, firstly at RAF Catterick, then moving to RAF Leeming and finally to RAF Dishforth. My secondment started at the detached wing, Leeming, which was primarily concerned with first and second year refresher courses for Probationer Constables. I was eased in gradually to my instructional duties in what was known as the “Sausage Machine”, a name derived from the regularity with which two and four week refresher courses were churned out at Leeming.

It was not an easy time over the next few months as every lecture, sometimes five or six per day and each lasting one hour, initially required at least two hours preparation per subject. In time and with practice, I gradually overcame those early difficulties and began

to enjoy my teaching experiences. Also enjoyable was mixing with RAF personnel, particularly in the Sergeants’ Mess, where wartime memories were still recalled in vivid detail and shamefully embellished in the process. Not so enjoyable was competing with the noise of jet engines being tested in close proximity to the classroom block.

Apparently, a nurse had been attacked by two men who tried to snatch her handbag as she walked up the drive of the Dryburn Hospital Nurses Home. She had resisted strongly before being beaten into submission and her handbag stolen. A witness had seen two men on a motorcycle in the area at that time.

I made a statement and was able to identify one of the men from photographs and subsequently attended an Identification Parade and positively identified one of the assailants on the motorbike.

A detached wing had also been established at RAF Dishforthwhich,havingbeenvacatedbytheRAF,offered significantly increased potential for development as a Police Training Centre. In July that year the Detached Wing at Leeming was closed and all instructional staff transferred to Dishforth. My instructional duties were again primarily with refresher training but I was also fortunate to be Syndicate Instructor for two Initial Training Courses, each of three months. Transforming raw recruits into a disciplined body, sufficiently versed in basic police procedures and law to give a good start to their careers, was perhaps the most satisfying and rewarding experience in my police service. Even more remarkable was the success we achieved with chalk and talk methods of instruction. Sophisticated training aids such as videos were non-existent while overhead projectors were other names for footballers taking throw-ins.

Early in June, 1951, I was working in the office, when Superintendent Precious and Inspector Lee came into Sergeant Hall’s office. I could see that they were agitated as they spoke to the sergeant, who then shouted for me. I ended up in the superintendent’s office, very apprehensive, thinking that I must have done something wrong in my work! I was asked in very strong terms to explain just what I had been doing that had merited a Judge at Durham Assizes to commend me for my actions in connection with a robbery. Whilst already worried, I was now also confused – what was a judge at Assizes anyway? I asked them to explain. I hadn’t even realised that the case had been heard!

During my time at Dishforth two things happened, which had far reaching effects on the police service in general and my own career in particular. Following publication of a White Paper entitled ‘Police Manpower, Equipment and Efficiency’ in which the Government said that we would never get enough recruits because of the low salaries paid, it was proposed to provide new equipment and the latest technology: cars for patrolling in and personal radios. The theory was that each officer would have a panda car in which he could drive around his beat but frequently stop and walk about.

The system became known as ‘Unit Beat Policing’ and was introduced despite the police view that we would become a reactive or fire-brigade service, lose contact with the public and our skills would diminish.

Thus, the nature of beat work was changed forever and traditional policing methods, which made the British police unique, all but vanished. Also, there is little doubt that our relationship with the public was seriously eroded and it will take many more years to regain the support we once enjoyed.

It was difficult to accept the Government’s assertion that recruitment was at a low level because Dishforth had become the overflow training centre for most of the country and, if I remember rightly, at one time had close to seven hundred officers under training. I

I attended the Committal proceedings at Durham City Magistrates Court where I made a deposition and was bound to appear at the next Assizes of which Jack Findlay was to alert me.

In all innocence, I outlined the details of the incident with the two men and the BSA motorcycle. This earned me a right ‘tongue lashing’ for not making them aware of my involvement in the incident.

(Actually, I had told Sergeant Hall about the incident and my attendance at court to make my deposition. He didn’t seem to be particularly interested at the time and must have forgotten??, ) Given the heated atmosphere in the superintendent’s office, even as a bewildered young, callow cadet, I had the native wit not to drop the sergeant in the ‘claggy’!!

Later the same afternoon, I was told to go to see the Chief Clerk, Chief Superintendent Billy Hogg, who was responsible for Police Cadets. He had hired me and now I felt certain, from the tone of displeasure in the verbal torrent from my superiors, that now I was going to be fired by him! I seemed to be waiting in the Admin Office for ages before being marched in to his office. He was there with the Deputy Chief Constable, Mr. John Wright. They congratulated me for my actions in the incident and proudly told me that I was the first cadet in the history of the Durham County Constabulary to be commended by an Assize Court Judge. Indeed they thought I was probably the first serving cadet in the country to receive such an honour.

Extract from Durham County Constabulary General Orders July, 1951. 27/51

Commendations

Cadet Brian Hunter TURNER, Traffic and Communications Department, Headquarters was commended by The Honourable Mr. Justice CASSELS, K.C. sitting at Durham Assizes and the Chief Constable, for intelligent observation and action displayed in interrogating two men who were subsequently arrested and convicted on charges of Robbery with Violence and Larceny Chief Inspector Jimmy Jackson, as forthright as ever grunted that ‘I was a lucky young lad to be commended by a High Court Judge and that many policemen went through their whole service without such recognition!’ How right he was! In my career of 30 years service, 10 in uniform and 20 in CID I dealt with many cases, including High Court appearances, I earned several Chief Constable’s Commendations - none from the Judges!

Mr. Justice Cassels, K.C. was indeed magnanimous to a young cadet starting his Police career.

The Deputy Chief Constable had been informed that a cadet from Traffic & Administration Department had been commended by the Assize Court Judge. He had telephoned Superintendent Harry Precious, who had been ‘caught on the wrong foot’ and had to admit that he had no knowledge of the incident nor the member of his staff involved….

At that time, I had only three months experience in the police environment and no real knowledge of procedures. I simply assumed that somehow my superiors would become aware of my involvement.

The machinations of rivalry between the heads of Traffic and CID were at that time completely unknown to me. Apparently ‘words were exchanged

Keep up to date. Latest news from NARPO. Visit www.durhamnarpo.blogspot.com

Cadets meet Chief Constable Alec Muir. Bet this brings back memories for many of you – why not write and identify yourself and your friends?

CADETS on Parade

Chief Constable Alec Muir with girl cadets in the Force Museum (when we had one…!)

Recognise any of the girls in berets? Tell me about it….

Photographs from personal album of Alec Muir, C.B.E; Q.P.M; D.L.; M.A; Order St. John.

Chief Constable Durham County Constabulary 4th November 1950 to 1st October, 1970 (All photographs kindly supplied by Tom Muir, son of the late Alec Muir

Durham Police Cadets Rugby Team 1974. County Colts Cup Winners

1960 Cadets First Aid Training. Photograph

courtesy Anne Galstan (widow of ’Ned Lawson) Terry O’Connor, Reg. Lewis (sitting) PC Frank Bellis, Ned Lawson & Ian Threlfall.

(Identified by Gordon Bacon)

From left:

Durham Cathedral’s Sanctuary Knocker “discovered” by Cadets.

Cadet Frank Hills at Harperley Hall being introduced to Neville, by A/Sgt. Ernie Burden 1959