Durham Peeler - Winter 2009

Durham Peeler WINTER 2009

“Eis Servire Qui Serviverunt”. “Of Service to those who served” A brief N.A.R.P.O. National Conference overview. By Alan S. Watson.

I suppose you have all immediately recognised the N.A.R.P.O. motto and its significance? Well, I know now, having been advised by a more learned colleague who speaks the lingo… Just to further your knowledge, the objectives of N.A.R.P.O. can be broadly described as “To safeguard the rights of members and to promote measures for their welfare, with particular regard to pensions”, to which I would add “and a whole lot more”

DURHAM COUNTY BRANCH Being armed with this knowledge and a remit from the Durham Branch Committee,

Barry & Angie Crawford and yours truly set forth to what proved to be one of the Magazine best Conferences in recent years at Scarborough (of course). The occasion was further memorable because this year is the 90th Anniversary of the foundation of the National Association Retired Police Officers and a fitting farewell and tribute to Mike Thornton, the retiring NARPO Chief Executive who was handing over the

Please Note Important Announcement.

Annual subscriptions changes Durham Branch NARPO commencing 1st January 2010:WIDOWS subs. increased to £5.00 Additional Member subs. increased to £7.00.

Can all Widows and Additional Members who pay by cash or cheque ensure that payment is received by the Treasurer not later than 31st March, 2010.

Colin Appleby, 21, Lea Rigg, West Rainton, Houghton le Spring, DH4 6SR

Durham Branch N.A.R.P.O. Committee, 2009.

Chairman & Editor “Durham Peeler” magazine: Alan S. Watson, 38, Hummersknott Avenue, Darlington.

DL3 8LG. Tel. No. 01325 465609 email suenala7@ntlworld.com Honorary President: Derek Harrison L.L.B; M.B.E; c/o Helen McArdle Care Home, Durham DH1 5SE. Vice Chairman: Tom Baxter. Tel No. 0191 3849036.

Secretary: Barry C. Crawford, 8, Warwick Place, Peterlee, SR2 2EZ Tel No. 0191 5873987 email barrychiltoncrawford@yahoo.com Welfare Officer & Assistant Secretary: Angie Crawford Tel. No. 0191 5873987 email angiechilton@yahoo.com Treasurer: Colin Appleby, 21, Lea Rigg, West Rainton, Houghton le Spring DH4 6SR. Tel. No. 0191 5846178 email Appleby.colin@btopenworld.com Committee Members George Bennison, Tel. No. 01325 314879

Ches. Brighouse, Tel. No. 01388 818288

Tony Burn,

Tel. No.01388 813904

Derek Davison,

Tel. No. 0191 3888889

Don Moody,

Tel. No. 01325 460314

David Muckle,

Tel No 01325 462398

Audrey Ledger

Tel. No. 01388 601267

Bill Stableforth,

Tel. No. 0191 3866419

N.A.R.P.O. (Durham Branch) Meetings, 2010. All members are cordially

invited to attend.

Monday, 11th January, 2010

7.30pm. Durham Indoor Bowling Club.

Monday, 22nd March, 2010

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 7.30pm.. Durham Indoor Bowling Club.

Monday, 10 May, 2010

7.30pm

Monday, 12th July, 2010

7.30pm. Bishop Auckland Hospital Club

th

Bishop Auckland Hospital Club

Monday, 13 September 2010 7.30pm Durham Indoor Bowling th

Monday, 8th November 2010

Club

7.30pm. Bishop Auckland Hospital Club

Welcome to the latest Additional Members to Durham Branch.

Jim Carroll (Birmingham), Roy Bell , Ted Holder, Arthur Pattison & Fred Jardine (Sunderland/Northumbria branches) and Geoff Alderson (Coventry) Welcome to Durham Constabulary retirees who have recently joined NARPO ( Durham Branch) Tim Wilson, Tony Broughton, Paul Batey, Jaquie Hummerston, Ian Martin,Ken Reed & Alan Reed.

Welcome to NARPO (Other Force Areas) who have become Additional Members to Durham Branch.

Jim Carroll (Birmingham), Roy Bell , Ted Holder, Fred Jardine & Arthur Pattison (Northumbia/ Sunderland branches) and Geoff Alderson (Coventry)

Front Cover

A’ crisp and even’ winter’s day at Harperley Hall. Harperley in all its former splendour. (photograph courtesy National Policing Improvements Agency) cover insert courtesy Alf Charlton

a. Wolseley 6/80 Reg. KUP 858, Alf’s first patrol car in 1952. N.b. the siren was added to the car after being introduced into service.

It’s a Wonderful Time of the Year?

Well would you “Adam and Eve” it? It’s almost Christmas time all over again. Now isn’t that exciting – well it is to the big kids like me, but you may have other thoughts about the cold winter season. Look on the bright side it’s a time when we can all relax (unless you’re working out on the streets especially on nightshift over Christmas). No matter what your troubles or beliefs, I do hope that you will join with me in giving a thought and a prayer for the safety of our extremely brave and over stretched military forces out in Afghanistan. They certainly won’t be celebrating Christmas in quite the same way we can. “God speed you warriors”. I’d better not enlarge on this touchy area or the Politically Correct Brigade, The Thought Police or some other woolly minded group will be after me, determined to interpret innocent remarks as racial comments! (“never made any, honest, guv. I never even thought of any!”). What about freedom of speech? Dream on … remember, walls have ears…..!

Do you remember that in the last Christmas issue, I observed that Christmas is a Christian religious and festival season, to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Perhaps it is timely to remind ourselves of this principal objective, to have a pride in what we stand for and try to extend goodwill to all men at this graciously happy time. Above all we should remember how fortunate we are to have (well almost) freedom of choice.

Inevitably, not everyone will enjoy the happiness of Christmas this year. A number will be saddened and grieving at the loss of a loved one. Our thoughts and condolences are sincerely extended to all those who are so grieving. With the greatest sincerity, the Durham Branch Committee of N.A.R.P.O. continue to offer their support and guidance and with the assurance of confidentiality and friendliness to N.A.R.P.O. members and their families when they need it most. Always remember that your first point of contact is our Volunteer Welfare Officer, Mrs. Angie Crawford, tel. No. 0191 5873987 or any Committee member (See list on front inside cover). The value of our service has been appreciated by quite a few and our “model” of welfare service is being copied and hopefully will be extended in a number of Branches – especially those throughout No. 2 Region. We really are getting the message through - N.A.R.P.O. always care for their members’ welfare.

You will know that over the last couple or three years, I have attacked the loss of cohesion between the regular Force and our pensioners. Commendably, we have been strongly supported by ex C.C. George Hedges who travelled from Oxford to attend our A.G.M. in March. I am delighted to proclaim that Chief Constable Jon Stoddart and the newly promoted Deputy Chief Constable, Mike Barton (Congratulations Mike, on your well deserved promotion) are now clearly welcoming N.A.R.P.O.’s pro-active approach to welfare. Indeed we are now having regular meetings to clear up previous misconceptions, misunderstandings or whatever else led to our growing disquiet with relatively declining relations. We are now ‘knocking on an open door’ and currently in the early planning stages for a ‘new to be’, Retired Officers’ Reunion Day at Headquarters in June, 2010. It may not be as grand as the Harperley Hall Garden Parties- remember those halcyon days?

However it is nevertheless, an exciting step forward to closer ties with the Force. Watch this space – better still come to our NARPO Committee Meetings and keep up to date on this and all other evolving developments.

In the last issue, I made a typically barbed comment about Chief Constables nationally accepting performance bonus related payments from the Police Authorities. I am delighted to retract this “jibe” in respect of Jon Stoddart – he assures me that he was one of only FOUR Chief Constables who decline this payment. ‘Good on yer Sir’. Wait for it - unfortunately, it is now legally binding by Government legislation (well they are after all experts on expenses) for all Chief Constables to accept bonuses by diktat! It’s a difficult job isn’t it?

“Serenity Prayer” by Albrecht Durer: “God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change. The courage to change the things I can and the wisdom to know the difference. AMEN”

“Happy Christmas everyone” from all members of the Durham Branch Committee “and a Happy New Year”

Alan S. Watson Editor

N.A.R.P.O organised WELFARE CONTACT COURSE Report from Angie Crawford (Durham Branch, N.A.R.P.O. Welfare Rep.)

Nobody likes to get up at the ungodly hour of four in the morning, but I was to catch the train from Durham to London at 5.30a.m. and then onward to Leatherhead in Surrey where I was to attend the N.A.R.P.O. Welfare Contact course which started at 2pm in the afternoon - London, here I come…! Not being au fait with the London underground, I had given myself plenty of time for any delays or missing connections. Fortunately everything went smoothly and I arrived in good time at Police Federation House where the course was taking place and where I would be spending the night. Unfortunately we could not have our rooms until 2.00pm – does the time sound familiar? Which meant that I could not shower and change as I had anticipated. What a great start… however I was pleasantly surprised to see and meet a lot of new faces and of course, a few of the ones I had met on previous courses.

Our first speaker was Sandie Wilde who talked about the Police Dependants’ Trust to which you must register if you were injured on duty. You and/or your family may qualify for grants etc. if hardship befalls you or yours.

Fuller details can be extracted from Sandie’s web site at www.wilde.sandie@ntlworld.com Next speaker was Roger Parker from Roland Smith Insurance now operating within the P.M.A.S.. Roger is a real gentleman and very helpful- he can be contacted on the Roland Smith Helpline telephone number 084550264200.

He will offer advice on financial matters or put you in touch with a financial advisor as well as the usual car caravan and home insurances.

Angela Maxwell was our very knowledgeable speaker. Angela regularly gives accurate and up to date information on all State Benefits Taxes and associated financial issues in her regular bulletin page in NARPO News. What she cannot tell you about state benefits isn’t worth knowing She also has a telephone helpline for NARPO members and will answer you queries 01635 250929.

We were finally able to get into our rooms to unpack (more than 12 hours after setting off from home...) change and freshen up! We enjoyed a well earned, fine dinner at 7.30 pm - not much time for relaxing!

After breakfast the following morning, the course recommenced at 9.00am. For those who had not met Clint Elliot (he was appointed Chief Executive on Mike Thornton’s retirement at the Scarborough Conference on 11th September 2009). He was introduced and he spoke about Guaranteed Minimum Pensions and Pension Sharing..

A full transcript can be found at www.narpo.org/pensions Martin Mordiceau from the Police Federation gave a short talk on the ambiguities of the injury on duty awards and told the meeting that Federation Representatives would be able to assist any member through an injury award review.

The Age Concern representative discussed some of the concerns of the people who phone them and what pitfalls to look out for when someone goes into private care.

Thompson Solicitors representative told us that rates are heavily discounted for NARPO members. Just have your NARPO membership number ready if you give them a call. They give you 30 minutes free advice over the phone. You can find their advertisement in NARPO News.

This ended the morning session, followed by a nice lunch and then it was off to the station for the return journey home.

A very interesting and hugely informative 2 days for all Welfare Representatives present, preparing us even further to assist our branch members.

Worth a look on the internet Discounts for NARPO http:www.narpo.prg/index.php?option=com content&task=view&id=5

A NOTE FOR YOUR DIARY. Don’t Delay – Think and Act Today!

Durham Constabulary Garden Party for Retired Personnel. Sunday, 13thJune, 2010. (provisional arrangements).

A series of meetings have been held over the last couple of months between Deputy Chief Constable, Mike Barton, (representing C.C. Jon Stoddart), Jayne Swinburne, Force Corporate Communications Officer and NARPO Committee representatives, Alan Watson, Barry & Angie Crawford and Colin Appleby with a view to re-introducing the traditional style (and much missed, these last few years!) Garden Party, which has unfortunately become redundant, largely because of economic and logistic circumstances.

Fruits of our labours The Chief Constable, Jon Stoddart & Deputy Chief Constable Mike Barton, in a joint effort with N.A.R.P O., have agreed to arrange and hold a joint Garden Party on Sunday, 13th.June, 2010, commencing 2pm. using the facilities of the Durham Force H.Q. Complex. Make no mistake about it this is a major step forward.

Assuming the success of this exciting new venture, it is anticipated that this will become an annual event.

A lot of work has yet to be completed, but we are planning to use the venue at H.Q. outdoor complex for displays, organised visits to the new northern Control Room and the Traffic Department Refreshments will be available in the first floor Dining Rooms (recently refurbished – not like many of you will remember it) and the ‘old bar’ where there is plenty of seated accommodation and catering arrangements.

Events planned include a Dog Section Display; Traffic Fleet & Workshops open for viewing; The Durham Constabulary Band and Choir. In addition, we are planning a Historical photographic and Museum items displays (subject to negotiation with Beamish Museum) and possibly the presence of the Police Helicopter.

We are, in addition, examining the feasibility of having trade stands, presented by companies who have supported N.A.R.P.O. at the Annual Conferences and whose merchandise/franchise may appeal to our retired and current members of Durham Constabulary.

We do urge you to support this new venture, which recognises the opportunity to renew friendships with previous colleagues and to feel proud again to be members of the Durham Constabulary ‘family’.

We know we can make a success of this progress towards social integration and now it’s up to you to help make it a memorable day.

Admission will be by ticket only (tickets essential to determine catering numbers).

Tickets will be FREE on application.

Enquiries and ticket applications should be made early in the New Year, 2010: to: NARPO Welfare Officer, Angie Crawford, tel. no. 0191 5873987 email angiechilton@yahoo.com (NARPO Members and Widows) (NARPO Treasurer, Colin Appleby, tel. no. 0191 5846178 email Appleby.colin@btopenworld.com (Retired Police Officers who are not NARPO Members and retired civilian employees)

In event of difficulty or seeking clarification, contact either:Any Committee Member of N.A.R.P.O. (Contact details are on inside cover of The Durham Peeler).

OR Jayne Swinburne (Corporate Communications Officer) tel. no. 0191 3752273 Look out for further announcements in the Copper Plate and the

magazines in the New Year for fuller details.

Alan S. Watson. Chairman Durham Branch, N.A.R.P.O.

Durham Peeler

“Eis Servire Qui Serviverunt”.

“Of Service to those who served”

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

NARPO CONFERENCE I suppose you have all immediately recognised the N.A.R.P.O. motto and its significance? Well, I know now, having been advised by a more learned colleague who speaks the lingo… Just to further your knowledge, the objectives of N.A.R.P.O. can be broadly described as “To safeguard the rights of members and to promote measures for their welfare, with particular regard to pensions”, to which I would add “and a whole lot more”

SCARBOROUGH - 2009

Being armed with this knowledge and a remit from the Durham Branch Committee, Barry & Angie Crawford and yours truly set forth to what proved to be one of the best Conferences in recent years at Scarborough (of course). The occasion was further memorable because this year is the 90th Anniversary of the foundation of the National Association of Retired Police Officers and a fitting farewell and tribute to Mike Thornton, the retiring NARPO Chief Executive who was handing over the trappings of power to Clint Elliott.

Traditionally, the Annual Conference has been held alternatively “north” and “south” to ensure that our more delicate delegates did not have too far to travel. At last we seem to have found the elixir for all Conferences in the Borough of Scarborough where I can report that EVERYTHING, from the Pre Conference Dinner, the Conference venue at the Scarborough Spa Complex and all associated aesthetic and practical issues were superbly executed in a joint operation by the National Executive and the Borough of Scarborough Council Executive and their staff. I don’t think I heard a solitary grumble throughout and that is some kind of record!

Spa Complex Scarborough

This Conference provides the benchmark to which others must aspire-if we are to continue the traditional north & south arrangement. Personally, I do not think it will be equalled. The Northern No. 2 District Committee has written letters of appreciation to the organisers–(another first!)

The new format for Conference proved to be a hit. The traditional opening and administration issues were completed reasonably painlessly, followed by an interesting and most informative address given by Mark Botham, the Secretary of North Yorkshire Branch of the Police Federation at short notice, in the absence of Ian Rennie, General Secretary of the Police Federation of England & Wales who was unable to attend.

The main business of the day – the future of “Care First”, (introduced last year in good faith by the National Executive for the “better serving” of members’ welfare needs). As anticipated, there was a strong opposition to continuing to present this company with a minimum of £150,000/annum to provide a service that can largely be provided by local NARPO welfare officers and local authority services. A lively debate followed, concluding in a majority vote for its discontinuation and an encouragement of branches to develop their own welfare officers.

Injury on Duty Awards (or are they pensions?) continued to be a “hot potato” leading to even further debate but finally and inevitably remitted – it is for the government of the day to grasp this nettle – when will people accept that. NARPO and the Federation are powerless to force this issue further? This is one for Government level. The motion was remitted.

David Hanson M.P. the Minister of State for Crime & Policing, in his Conference address later indicated that the issue was being reviewed to ensure consistency and fairness and that a review by the Home Office seemed to be the way to resolve the issue – eventually! His other good news was that target dominated performance indicators are going to be removed (sanity at last?).

The majority of Motions were rejected in some cases or referred and a number of minor rule changes adopted in the best interests of the membership under the stewardship of the National Executive. Now this was more like it and the 400 delegated were buzzing with a new confidence that this is the new dawn which could lead N.A.R.P.O. to a more positive progress in the future. I’m sure we are all looking forward to Conference 2010 at Torquay. Watch this space.

What’s Going On? Latest News. Durham Constabulary Website Bike cops ‘summer of patrols’ in Durham Dales

6th October, 2009. A SUMMER-long campaign by eight officers from Durham Constabulary’s motorcycle section has been supporting the Teesdale and Weardale neighbourhood policing teams throughout the summer, linking their ‘BikeWise’ motorcycle casualty reduction strategy with local Police and Communities Together (PACT) priorities set by residents across the dales.

Both dales attract a large number of recreational riders from all over the country and beyond, drawn in by the scenic and relatively traffic-free roads. The same roads can also catch out the inexperienced by throwing up unexpected hazards, or by drawing riders beyond their capabilities and the volume of motorbikes passing through the rural communities of the dales has also raised concerns, with those attending PACT forums concerned about possible speeding through what are usually quiet locations.

Earlier this year the motorcycle section launched a campaign to ensure the dales received marked police patrols every weekend throughout the summer. As a consequence police spoke to over 600 motorcyclists this summer in the Dales area alone. Officers also continued their long-established policy of pulling bikers to the side of the road to promote safer riding skills and the ‘Rider Respect’ campaign. The ‘BikeWise’ strategy, of which the Durham Dales campaign forms a significant part, was last weekend awarded a Prince Michael International Road Safety Award for achievement and innovation in terms of reducing motorcycle related casualties.

Sedgefield officers targeting drug dealers.

28th September, 2009. ‘Operation Sibley’ has been set up to tackle the supply and misuse of controlled drugs in Trimdon Village. Sedgefield and Trimdon Neighbourhood Police Team, successfully executed a magistrate’s search warrant at an address in Meadow Road, Trimdon Village. A quantity of drugs and a suspected stolen motorcycle were seized and one man was arrested.

Police community support officers will be providing extra reassurance and information packs to local residents, and the operation was the result of community intelligence being acted on.

Police target organised crime gang in early morning raids 24th September, 2009. EIGHT men have been arrested today in a series of early morning raids designed to disrupt and dismantle an organised crime gang in County Durham. Teams of police, working with officials from the Environment Agency, swooped on homes and industrial areas, including a scrap yard, a skip hire company, a farm and a planned caravan site in a carefully co-ordinated operation.

As major searches of property and offices were underway, those arrested, whose ages range from the 30s to 45, were taken to various police stations for questioning. Seven were detained on suspicion of conspiracy to commit environmental offences, illegal tipping, waste disposal and car scrapping offences. An eighth man was arrested on suspicion of arson.

Deputy Chief Constable Mike Barton said: "This is the start of a concerted and relentless campaign to rid Co Durham of an organised crime group whose seemingly respectable business front is a sham and operates outside the law. Our message today is simple: it will not be tolerated and every effort will be made to arrest, convict and punish those involved. We, and all right-thinking people, don't want these individuals in Co Durham and working together with our partner agencies are determined to shut them down for good."

More than 150 police officers, including some with specialist sniffer dogs, along with 50 officials from the Environment Agency were involved in the raids which were watched by leading members of the local community Once sites were secured, mechanical diggers were brought in to begin a series of excavations to discover exactly what has been dumped and buried.

Mr Barton said: "Multi agency co-operation is a creative – and effective way of dealing with the threat posed by organised crime groups because it extends the resources we can call on. We are intent on creating a hostile environment for all criminals, particularly organised groups who think they can act with impunity. It is about arrests, recovery and prosecution, hitting criminals in their pockets, disrupting their activities, making life uncomfortable and unbearable – and I can promise there is more to come."

Anyone with information about criminal activity can contact Durham Constabulary on 0345 6060 365 or call Crime stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Another Policeman’s Story

(Part V) Training, Communications & Promotion By Ken Thurlbeck

My busy and enjoyable life continued much as before, mainly on supervisory duties until January 1961. I applied for and attended a Student Instructor’s Course at the District Training Centre, Newby Wiske, which was probably one of the most demanding and arduous experiences the service had to offer.

A six week period of intensive training as potential law instructors culminated in a final test lecture to recruits before a visiting panel of Chief Constables. “My subject, drawn by lot, was “Coinage Offences” - not the most inspiring of subjects. Amid much pursing of lips, my misfortune earned me the sympathies of the Directing Staff and relief of my fellow trainee instructors. Came the great day of my test lecture and I felt so grateful to my class for their vain efforts to show some interest in what I was talking about.

Most lost the struggle to remain conscious and it took a superhuman effort not to join them. Despite my poor showing my efforts throughout the course were sufficient to earn qualification as an instructor with the proviso that I would be better suited to in-force training instead of a district training centre. I was not too disappointed as having started my police career as cadet in residence at Harperley Hall, it was my ambition to return there one day as a member of the instructional staff and later perhaps as Commandant. Neither came to fruition.

Shortly after completing the course I successfully passed a selection board for promotion to Sergeant, which I was told was imminent. While waiting for the great day to arrive I was given a variety of duties to fill in time, like attending one or two local courses, spells of Acting Sergeant or back on patrol teaching a young Gary Waine which end of the car went first.

Regrettably the great day took a little time in arriving because following a substantial pay rise, those who were about to retire decided to stay on a year or so longer in order to benefit from an increased pension. As a result promotions were held in abeyance but several of the potential sergeants, myself included and for want of something better to do, were placed on a pre-promotion training programme which would take anything up to two years to complete. It was known as “The Roundabout” and the favoured few on were not popularly regarded by the rest of the Force. My first move on the Roundabout was to be a return to Hartlepool but as the birth of our first child was imminent I successfully obtained the cancellation of a move which entailed changing residence.

On 19th November 1962, I was posted to Communications Department at Force Headquarters, bringing to an end seven and a half industrious but happy years on Traffic Patrols.

My labours were recorded in 41 pocket books and show that I was involved in the reporting of 1318 traffic offences, of which 547 were for excessive speed. The remaining 771

miscellaneous offences were wide ranging from riding a cycle without lights, to causing death by dangerous driving.

Arrests totalled 52 comprising 9 for drink driving, 27 for taking motor vehicles without consent, 6 drunkenness, 7 larceny and 3 breaking offences. To this figure should be added 14 absconders arrested from the nearby Approved School at Aycliffe. They deserve special mention as part of their punishment for running away was to undergo gruelling physical training so that next time they ran away they were super fit and we had little chance of catching them again. I responded to slightly over 400 ‘999’calls and attended about 300 accidents, 11 of which were fatal. Those statistics, which were collated as accurately as possible, are not claimed as any form of record because they could well be equalled and surpassed by many of my colleagues at that time. They were typical of the heavy work loads we undertook with remarkable tenacity of purpose and could not be repeated in modern times. While we may not have been too popular with the motoring public who all too often we met in areas of conflict, I firmly believe that we were still able to retain the cooperation and respect of the public at large.

The years spent on Traffic Patrols were not completely work related as there were many fun-filled occasions to be remembered. Regrettably in modern parlance they would be classed as politically incorrect, misuse of taxpayers’ money or inappropriate behaviour so it would be best to leave those things unsaid and move on to a change of direction in my career.

Three Stripes, Four Moves.

My attachment to Communications Department lasted about 9 months and despite having no aptitude whatsoever for all things technical, my stay proved interesting and beneficial.

I joined C/Insp. Jim Anderson, Sergeant Howard Hutchens and P.C. Bill Pratt, who were responsible for installation of radio and telephone systems together with first line repairs of VHF radios and anything else mechanical which required mending. It took a little while to understand what they were talking about but in time I became sufficiently versed in the jargon to nod intelligently in their presence and baffle others with the technical terms I’d learned but didn’t really understand.

My duties were essentially clerical and I was not allowed to wear the badge of a qualified technician, namely a brown shop coat. It was only on the odd occasion I was accorded that honour, usually when it was my turn to wash the departmental transport. Of particular interest was the testing and evaluation of pocket radio sets in various areas of the Force, prior to wholesale introduction a little later.

A helicopter privately hired from Alistair Craig, brother of actress Wendy, was also under evaluation to assess its usefulness in a police support role. Communications Department was responsible for providing ground to air

radio communications. I was also introduced to the infant development of facsimile machines and was party to the early stages of planning a new control room, including a resource availability system, for the proposed new Headquarters at Aykley Heads.

Introduction of the helicopter was on the initiative of the Chief Constable, Mr. A.A. Muir, who had the rare ability to conceive and implement new ideas. Regrettably on this occasion the Home Office did not share his vision and he was persuaded to discontinue the experiment on the grounds of impracticality. The Home Office has often been referred to as the official delaying agency of the police service; never more so on this occasion.

My next turn on the roundabout was a transfer to Houghtonle-Spring Division when I moved from a council house at Newton Aycliffe into a police house vacated by Alf. Charlton. By now I was taking an interest in his career as it might give me some idea where I could be going to next!

I spent three months in the Admin. Office and one month in CID during which I learned I was to be promoted to Sergeant on 1st. January 1964.

Houghton-le-Spring Division was essentially rural by nature with many detached sections and beats plus two town sections, namely Houghton and Seaham Harbour. My posting was to the former where I was to be one of three sergeants in the Town Section, working from Divisional Headquarters. The other two were Tom Minns and John Hesler. Custody sergeants per se hadn’t been thought of so in addition to supervisory duties we were responsible for what passed as a charge office and for good measure, relieved the Town Office Constable when he went for refreshments.

Nominally we worked three shifts but in the absence of one of us the other two worked 10am – 6pm and 6pm. – 2am. leaving whatever P.C.s on duty, (never in great numbers), between 2am. and 10am, entirely unsupervised. In those circumstances their duties were written out in advance so they knew which beats they were to patrol and where to be at given times. Fortunately not many arrests were made during those unsupervised hours otherwise one of the off duty Sergeants would be called out to accept the charge.

The two Divisional Inspectors worked discretionary hours, rarely after 12mn, and on the occasions when a town sergeant worked a full night shift he was the sole supervisory officer on duty for the whole Division. A divisional car was available to him, occasionally complete with driver, to assist with his supervisory duties. At best, he would have three P.Cs. in Houghton-le-Spring and one at Seaham as the total Divisional strength for the night.

Constables in the Town Section were a mix of probationers and slightly more experienced officers, with the longer serving members occupying detached beats. It was not the busiest of stations and compared to the training divisions in larger towns, lacked the variety and opportunities more

beneficial to probationer constables. Nevertheless, it was a reasonably happy environment and what we had worked very well. Not being as long in the tooth as my two colleagues I suppose I felt more affinity with the probationers and thoroughly enjoyed guiding them in their formative years.

For a period of two months I took charge of Probationer Training in the absence of their regular tutor.

One of my charges was P.C. David Blakey, who even at this early stage of his career and without much assistance from me, showed a maturity and intelligence beyond his years.

However, my pocket book records a couple of occasions when I had to admonish him for being late reporting for duty. He later became Chief Constable of West Mercia, President of ACPO and an HMI. I often wonder how much further he might have gone in his distinguished career had those two lapses not tarnished his otherwise unblemished record!

Life as a supervisor with conspicuously white stripes went along at a comfortable pace and I even managed to report about a dozen offences, attend a couple of fatal accidents and arrest one person for a drink/driving offence. I also collected one unsubstantiated complaint against me for failing to take action after receiving a complaint of assault.

My time at Houghton-le-Spring drew to a close in October 1965 when I was told of my transfer to Consett Division as Sergeant in charge of Blackhill Section. It was an area of the Force with which I was unfamiliar but to be given my own section at such an early stage of my career was an opportunity not to be missed. My wife and I went to see the house at Shotley Bridge where we would be living and were very pleased at its pleasant location and almost new condition. Unfortunately the incumbent, whose place I was to take, refused to leave his house and present post therefore my proposed move to that area was cancelled.

I was not too disappointed at this turn of events and had visions of resuming my comfortable and undemanding stay at Houghton-le-Spring but a few days later the Divisional Commander told me that I would be posted to Shotton Colliery in Castle Eden Division as Section Sergeant. The contrast between Shotley Bridge and Shotton Colliery was hard to imagine and Superintendent Frank Allen, a very kind and approachable officer, sensed my reluctance but strongly advised that as a prerequisite to further advancement, it was essential I seized the opportunity to show I was capable of exercising the detached judgement a Section Sergeant’s duties demanded.

In November 1965 we moved to a police house to Shotton Colliery. It was snowing heavily on the day we moved, much to the delight of my 3 year old son who thought he was about to live among snow covered Alpine mountains. His delight was matched by his disappointment on subsequently discovering the pit heaps which lay beneath their white carpet. Shotton Colliery Section also included the nearby villages of South Hetton, Haswell and Haswell Plough and

was based at an office attached to the house. Total strength was six officers working discretionary hours on detached beats.

Once again I lost my identity and by tradition, I was known as “The Sergeant” while my wife was known as “Mrs. Sergeant”. Also traditional and freely given, were certain perks of the job which today would be regarded as inappropriate and therefore not expanded upon. For example, on one occasion about a ton of coal was deposited on the road in front of the house and despite my protestations the driver of the lorry refused to take payment. I later saw my benefactor at the local colliery who was somewhat hurt at my insistence on paying for the goods but eventually we settled on a price of £1.10s.

As events turned out my stay at Shotton Colliery was to be short lived but in addition to routine duties, I enjoyed new experiences and I was grateful for the help I received from the mature officers with whom I worked. For example, I occasionally prosecuted at Peterlee Magistrates’ Court, regularly examined explosives stores at the nearby collieries and attended Haswell cattle market. I approached my first appearance at the latter with some trepidation but armed with that well known book described as a’ Handy Guide for Police to the Contagious Diseases of Animals Acts’ published in 1935, entitled “What to do and when to do it” by Superintendent Fred Foster, Durham County Constabulary, my confidence level rose enormously.

As it turned out my fears were unfounded because I just signed whatever pig movement licences were put in front of me, reassured by the words “Just sign there, it’ll be alright”. My attendance at the annual poultry sale at the same market gave me an anxious moment. At the end of proceedings one of the sellers asked if I would like a couple of ducks to take home and after agreeing a price of 1s.0d. each, he armed himself with a wooden baton, took me to a pen containing about twenty birds and told me to pick out the two which took my fancy. Haunted by the vision of the slaughter which was to follow and remembering the countless hours I had spent in the past feeding bread to their relatives, my resolve and appetite rapidly disappeared and I declined the offer. By way of compensation I did receive a goose, mercifully already dead, at Christmas but it was so large that it had to be sawn in two before it would fit into the regulation size county issue electric oven.

This popular series continues into the New Year issues of the Durham Peeler. Thanks Ken for your continued support for the magazine and your valued contributions.

Alan S. Watson

Seen on the internet:

BEWARE-TRAFFIC CAMERA! A man was driving when a traffic camera flashed. He thought his picture was taken for exceeding the speed limit, even though he knew he was not speeding.

Just to be sure, he went around the block and passed the same spot, driving even more slowly, but again the camera flashed.

He thought this was quite funny, so he slowed down even further as he drove past the area, but the traffic camera flashed yet again.

He tried a fourth time with the same result. The fifth time he was laughing when the camera flashed as he rolled past at a snail’s pace.

Two weeks later, he got five traffic fine letters in the mail for driving without a seat belt!

GET OUT OF THE CAR! (This is allegedly a true account recorded in the Police log of Sarasota, Florida).

An elderly Florida lady did her shopping and upon returning to her car, she found four males in the act of driving off in her vehicle.

She dropped her shopping bags and drew her handgun screaming at the top of her voice “I have a gun and I know how to use it! Get out of the car!”

The four men didn’t wait for a second threat. They got out of the car and ran like mad. The lady somewhat shaken, loaded her shopping bags into the back of the car and got into the driving seat. She was so shaken that she could not get her key into the ignition.

She tried and tried before realizing why – the same reason that she had wondered why there was a football, a Frisbee and two 12 packs of beer in the front seat ! (Whoops!”)

A few minutes later – having found her own car, parked four or five spaces further down, she re-loaded her shopping bags into the car and drove to the police station to report her mistake.

The Sergeant to whom she made her confession couldn’t stop laughing. He pointed to the other end of the counter where four pale and jittery men were reporting a car jacking by a mad elderly woman, described as white, less than five feet tall, glasses, and curly white hair and carrying a large handgun!

No charges were filed…. and the moral of the story?

If you’re going to have a senior moment-make it memorable! (There, I knew I’d make you smile)

A CHRISTMAS STORY

by George Hartley

I recently attended a NARPO Meeting at the Durham Bowling Centre (It was worth the effort just to have a piece of Angie’s corned beef pie…) The meeting was chaired by the Editor of the Durham Peeler, who very bravely asked me to write a story for the magazine – despite “death threats” by that retired Dog Man from Edmondsley (Only kidding Barry) So, here it is:I watched the Edinburgh Tattoo on T.V. on August Bank Holiday and was moved by the girl singing “Amazing Grace”.

It took me (in my memory) back to November 2004, a time when I was staying at my daughter’s house at Morogoro in Tanzania. One day whilst sitting at the table on the veranda of her bungalow where I used to read or write, I heard the most wonderful singing of “Amazing Grace”. I stood up and shouted “Who is that singing?” The response was immediate, as a shaven head popped up above the wire fence and through the bushes, “It is me Octavian”. I chided the young black man, mentioning something about Roman soldiers! Then I gave him the order in my best Military manner, “Octavian, whenever you see me sitting here, I want to hear you singing Amazing Grace!” “Dio Bwana” (Yes Sir) he immediately and happily replied – and so it was. I later discovered that Octavian Msongamwanja was a Christian and helped out at the Emmanuel Church at Morogoro. Now without being disrespectful to anyone, I am not religious at all, but I know that Churches, Cathedrals and graveyards are like history books and the source of much knowledge, so I agreed to attend the Christmas Carol Service on Christmas Eve, 2004 at the Emmanuel Church.

Octavian met me and my two pals, Bryan, a refugee from Zimbabwe and Ron, a South African Railway Engineer, at the door. Usually at such times we were at some “drinking hole”, watching rugby or cricket and as the Service started at 1800 hours, no doubt that pursuit would quickly follow! Averil and Dawn Hartley were at the front of the church with their friends. I was given the Order of Service, a Bible and a Hymn Book and shook hands with the Minister, a small, broad built, fuzzy haired black man with a beaming smile, set off with the biggest and whitest teeth - in a land of white teeth!

I made a quick count of the congregation and reckoned 60 to 70 people were present. Doctor Barry (wheelchair bound) (a one time strong man brought low by some tropical disease), and his lovely wife Julia-long blonde hair and finely built lady. Both are Bible Translators and Missionaries, are heavily committed to the Service. He plays a trumpet and addresses the congregation. She stands and sings what is termed “Julia’s Song”. I find it very difficult to describe the setting. The warm, dark tropical night closes in on a small, roughly made church poor lighting (mainly candles), humble fittings and fixtures and an assortment of odd chairs gathered from here and there. All the windows are open to allow the breeze to blow through the entire building. There are some Christmas Decorations suspended from the ceiling, some children crying and misbehaving, others watching and listening intently to the beautiful rendition of ‘Julia’s Song’, whilst her husband sat in his wheelchair looking on. It touched even my ‘hard heart’, so I joined in their carol singing and quite enjoyed it-before going to the “Dragonaires”( South African Bar), where I had 3 large Castle Beers and plenty of the “water of life”…!

Yes there was some history in the Church, including a large plaque dedicated to Harold Ralph Ruggles –Brise, M.C.; Croix de Guerre, 4th son of Archibald Weyland Ruggles-Brise of Spains Hall, Finching Field, Essex, who had died at Morongo on 23rd April, 1951 aged 60 years, also his wife, Cecily Jane Ruggles-Brise, daughter of John Henry Gurney of Keswick Hall.

Norfolk, who died 6th January, 1958 – “Fight a Good Fight”. I imagine that they were part of the well bred white people who had been living in Colonial Africa at a time when they were “looked after” and life was easy – apart from the risk of disease which can catch unsuspecting Europeans out and quickly destroy their health! “A Merry Christmas to all, especially Barry. Cheers.

George Hartley Thanks George for that humbling, and graphic story. Be sure to write further articles from “Out of Africa” please for the future issues of the Durham Peeler? (editor & No. 1 fan) ……. And now a letter from your No. 2 fan:Alan, Thank you for not putting any of those ‘Hartleyograms’ from the dark continent in the current magazine although this now means I have to go out and get sleeping tablets. He tells me you went to ‘Henry Smithers’ at Hartlepool? He thought you might remember my brother, Leslie Wood from Horden, who also went there about the same time. Les was a keen rugby player for the school. He was born in 1940.. It was nice to see some of Paul Greener’s memoirs. I still half expect a phone call from him planning a lunch & grumble. Barry Wood Hi Barry, Always a privilege to publish a letter from the President of the George Hartley fan club! You will be pleased to know we will also continue to publish Paul Greener’s amusing anecdotes provided by his widow, Sheila. I started at ‘Henrys’ a year later than your brother (1952– 57). Nice to know at least one member of your family had brains “Keep taking the tablets”.

Alan S. Watson

The Federation of Police Lodges.

7th Annual Festival Meeting 2009 ~ Leyland On Friday 12th and Saturday 13th June 2009, about 100 Brethren and their Ladies of the Federation of Police Lodges met at Leyland Masonic Centre, Wellington Park, Leyland, in the Province of West Lancashire for the seventh annual Festival Meeting. Wellington Park is an ideal venue for such a Festival; the Masonic Centre includes a small Hotel complex, a large comfortable Bar, a very impressive Temple and a large car park.

The Province of Durham was well represented by W. Bro’s Gordon Williams, Harrison Mullen, John Malcolm, Thomas Urwin, Derick Hewitson, Norman Clarke and Fred Taylor of Hammurabi Lodge no 9606 and W. Bro Brian Wood of the Earl of Durham Lodge No 1274. These brethren were accompanied by their good ladies.

On the Friday evening, it was truly a wonderful feeling to walk into the hall to renew so many old friendships that have been forged amongst the members of the Federation. The Federation only meet once a year with perhaps a visit or two to installation meetings around the country but the friendship is warm, genuine and very sincere. The Friday evening gave the Brethren and Ladies a chance to mix together socially with a piano playing quietly in the background. We were served a traditional Lancashire Hot Pot with red cabbage and mushy peas. It was truly a wholesome meal and well received and enjoyed by everyone.

On the Saturday afternoon, having sent the Ladies (who were staying locally) off to Southport by mini-bus, the Brethren of the Federation met for their business meeting.

The President, W. Bro David Hope of Francis Burgess Lodge No. 9287 was standing down after his three year term in office. and W. Bro Peter Hill of Watch & Ward Lodge No.8809 from the Province of East Kent was elected the next President of the Federation. W. Bro Charlie Wass of Sovereign’s Peace Lodge No. 8911 was also standing down and E. Comp Roger Norris, of The Red Rose of Lancashire HRA Chapter No. 9640, was elected Chairman and invited to take the Chair.

During the meeting it was decided to elect a Vice President and Vice Chairman, both to follow into the Office of President and Chairman on completion of their respective terms of Office. W. Bro Harrison Mullen, B.E.M of Hammurabi Lodge was elected Vice President and W. Bro John Malcolm, also of Hammurabi Lodge was elected Vice Chairman. W. Bro Malcolm said it was an honour for them and the Province of Durham.

The other piece of important business dealt with was the venue for the 2010 Festival. It had originally been planned for London at Great Queen Street hosted by The Phoenix of the Metropolis Lodge. However W. Bro Harry Smith, said that he had had major problems trying to sort out the Festival on his own and said that he feared that they would not be in a position to host such a Festival in 2010 in London.

W. Bros Peter Hill and Mick Page (Watch & Ward Lodge in East Kent) informed the meeting that they had been aware of the problem and that they had already discussed the situation and were prepared to host the Festival in 2010 in Gillingham.

They hosted the 2006 Festival which was a resounding success and informed the meeting that the Masonic Centre in Gillingham had recently undergone a major refurbishment and was really first class. and a date would be arranged

It was confirmed that, although there were no representatives present from Ireland, Harp & Crown Lodge No. 60, of the Grand Lodge of Ireland are very eager and keen to host the Festival in 2011 in Belfast. If the numbers attending are too great, they will however move it to Dublin. Under the present political situation, with the re-formed Police Service of Northern Ireland, the Grand Lodge of Ireland will still not sanction Harp & Crown joining the Federation but they have intimated that, perhaps in a couple of years, an application may be more sympathetically received. This could then open the door for the Garda Siochana’s Police Lodge also joining the Federation.

Once the business meeting was closed, the Brethren prepared for the meeting in the wonderful Temple at Leyland. The Lodge was opened and the A. Pr. G. M. for the Chorley Group of Lodges, W. Bro Frank Wilkinson PSGD together with W. Bro Harold Woodward PSGD the senior A. Pr. G. M. from East Lancashire were admitted, together with a number of distinguished Grand and Provincial Grand Officers.

The main business of the meeting was to receive a lecture on the building of the Temple, performed by the H.R.A. Chapter Lecture Team from East Lancashire. This proved to be very interesting and also very amusing lecture which was received with acclamation. Following the lecture, the Worshipful Master called upon the D.C. to present W. Bro Peter Hill before him and he then invested him with the President’s collar and jewel of the Federation of Police Lodges.

Once the Lodge was closed, the Brethren returned to the reception area to await the arrival of the Ladies and to continue mixing socially with the visiting Brethren from around the country. At 6.00pm, with the Ladies safely back amongst us, we were called to sit down to dine. The meal was beautifully presented and consisted of a fan of melon, a wonderful broccoli and stilton soup followed by chicken in an apricot sauce served with fresh seasonal vegetables. The main course was followed by a very refreshing fresh fruit salad. Cheese and biscuits were served with Coffee/Tea and after dinner mints. During the meal we were entertained by a very talented Organist. A vocalist also sang a number of songs from the shows.

Along with the usual loyal toasts, a toast was given to the Federation of Police Lodges and W. Bro Peter Hill, President, responded on behalf of the Federation. The response to the toast to the visitors was given by W. Bro David Anderton and in his usual manner; W. Bro. David had everyone rolling about and in some discomfort - having laughed too much on a full stomach! Following the Tyler’s toast, the Brethren and Ladies departed to the Bar or to their rooms or left to travel home having enjoyed a wonderful, worthwhile and exhilarating weekend in West Lancashire and all looking forward to our next gathering in 2010.

So it’s East Kent in 2010 and Ireland, north or south in 2011, a couple of very interesting weekend trips away in prospect.

For more information on the Federation of Police Lodges, the 2010 Annual Festival at Gillingham or Hammurabi Lodge No 9606, please contact the Lodge Secretary W. Bro John Malcolm telephone No. 01325 318083.

E-mail j.malcolm1@sky.com.

Tug of War. a second win for Whickham with almost a new team (including an old pal from football days), Danny Ledger, Bill Burt & Jack Pirt. Can you recognise the rest?

Bishop Auckland Cricket Team of the Fifties Photographs courtesy

Bishop Sportsmen

Tom White

County Constabulary Driving Course Police H.Q. 1946 Featuring a young Lawrie Wright (4th from right, back row) and an equally young, Inspector Bill Hogg.

I’m sure you will recognise others too – let me know if you do?

(Photo courtesy Mrs. Clare Wright (widow of Lawrie)

Senior Officers, Durham Constabulary at Peterlee.

Retirement of Chief Constable, A.A.Muir Esq., C.B.E.; Q.P.M.; M.A.; D.L. 1970

Durham Division, C.I.D. early 1940s D.C. Andrew Thompson 3rd left middle row

Bishop Auckland Division, late 20s-early 30s?

D.C. Andrew Thompson is to the extreme right- middle row.

Police Research & Planning –Pioneering Days

A light hearted reflection on some “whacky” ideas. Written by the late David H. Gidley M.B.E. Sadly David Gidley died In a Nursing Home in June, 2009. He was however delighted to have read the first of his quaint articles in the summer 2009 edition of the Durham Peeler magazine. I will carry on publishing one or two of the articles that he forwarded to me prior to his demise, in his memory. Alan S. Watson The Home Office (London) sent a senior scientist together with a senior Civil Servant to confer at the then Headquarters in Aycliffe. After extensive discussions, it was determined a schedule of study. Methods of tracking criminals and their associated vehicles &searching for buried bodies (Moors Murders) were a priority. We were to consider VHF to UHF radio communications linking the officer on the beat to patrol cars and H.Q. (bearing in mind that this was almost 50 years ago). Night vision equipment; bullet/explosive protection; underwater communications for divers were to be examined. Also in our remit were: forcible stopping of fugitive vehicles, the development of four wheel drive vehicles, rescue vehicles, surveillance vehicles and conspicuous colour for emergency vehicles, (dealt with in last issue of the Peeler) At that time we had no knowledge of D.N.A. evidence. Looking back, readers will marvel at the dramatic progress that had been made during the last 60 years in so many areas and many “howlers” along the way.

In my time as Head of Department of Research & Planning, I had many sergeants working with me including Alf Charlton (ask him to tell you the story of the prototype riot shield) Jack Scott Blair (helicopters); Ray Basham and Howard Hutchens. Other pioneering personalities in the department included Arthur Chapman; Harry Scott & Bill Newby.

Four wheel drive vehicles In the 21st Century, the four wheel drive “Chelsea Tractors” are now commonplace and to many, the vehicle of choice…..One could be forgiven for assuming that we live in a rugged rough terrain landscape rather than urban and semi urban environments with pretty good road networks… These gas guzzling monsters have become favourites for school runs and more often than not, status symbols rather than used for their designed purpose (stand by for the letters of outrage…?) However, in the late 1950s and early 60s a lot of work and money was expended in their development.

One of the early “Heath Robinson” developments tried out, was an Austin Mini car built with two engines and four wheel drives. The Mini chassis had the conventional front engine & drive with a second mounted in the boot space.

The controls were engineered to combine the gearbox changes, electrics and all other components via a complicated linkage. It worked – somehow. Press the start button, both engines fired up engage the gears and drive – off we went - like a rocket!!

Unfortunately the practicality failed to catch on- another one for the archives…!

Crowd Control: THE NET We tested an idea of using a huge fishing net which, theoretically to be fired from a sort of Blunder-bus gun, designed to spread out and ensnare sections of an unruly crowd… This was to be supplemented by a series of dyes which would stain the “offenders” and help in identification later….I don’t think the concept caught on?

More Bovver with the Hovercraft!

Whilst working with the Home Office, we tested a small hovercraft (2 man crew plus 2 casualties) on the sea off the Essex coast. Unfortunately the choppy North Sea blasted it off course and involuntarily ashore on a beach. The crew & casualties had consumed a Ploughman’s Lunch and a couple of pints for their “snack” prior to setting out and they really needed a “lamp post”. Naturally, there was no such thing around, only a 200 feet high lighthouse mounted on a rock.-this was no mirage! They steered the hovercraft to it, jumped out- “Oh! What a relief!” Then a voice from on high brought them back to reality “Ahoy there my hearties- enjoying yourselves?” boomed out the lighthouse keeper!

You are not being truthful!

Incredibly, more than 45 years ago, we tried the Polygraph (lie detector) at the Police Staff College, Bramshill.

I had an American F.B.I. Agent who brought the Polygraph to the College to demonstrate its potential to Chief Constables and other A.C.P.O. officers. I remember in one test, a Chief Constable was found to be lying about his wife’s first name! The demonstration was impressive, although at that time, the equipment was quite bulky. (Modern U.S. models are miniaturised and very accurate). However, the Home Office, no doubt persuaded by the civil rights and political correct brigade do not seem to have the appetite or heart to introduce the technology in the U.K – after all why should anyone incriminate himself – “it’s just not cricket!”

“Alf & Goliath”

by Alf Charlton

In the article entitled, Police Research & Planning- Pioneering Days, David Gidley mentioned the fact that I had used the first experimental riot shield whilst performing helicopter duties in 1963.

The shield in question was held by Durham Police by reason of the fact that Chief Constable Alec Muir was the National Secretary of A.C.P.O. Research Committee at the time. The shield was made of fibre glass, measuring around 3.5 feet high and 2.5 feet wide with “wings” on each side and a Perspex window and was kept permanently in Control Room.

With Dick Dorman at the controls of the helicopter (what a superb pilot he was), we had just landed back at H.Q. after carrying out observations on the N.C.B. pay roll deliveries, when a ‘999’ call was received to the effect that “A big fellow had gone berserk at the top of Weardale and was causing chaos in the area”. ! I do remember as I was picking up the shield at H.Q one of the Control Room staff observing, “Mind Sergeant, he’s a big …..!”

With some difficulty I got the shield and myself into the helicopter and with Dick Dorman’s expertise, we landed within a few minutes on the football field at St. Johns Chapel in Weardale.

Two local and two traffic Police Constables were already in attendance in the street outside the house where the man had retreated. I decided we would confront the man together, with me in the middle, holding the shield. At that point out of the house came the tallest and biggest man I’d ever seen in my life! Apparently it was the custom for people to go into Weardale on a Sunday afternoon and take photographs of him and his brother whilst they were out for a walk.

I spoke to the man and he appeared to calm down, so I went with him into the house – me still carrying the shield!

I talked to him for quite some time and suddenly he let loose and chased me around the room – wielding a length of piping. Needless to say I got out of the house, followed by the giant who was wielding a high backed chair over his head!

At this stage, I was joined by the other officers, who surrounded him, one of whom managed to hook a walking stick around his ankle which unbalanced him and he fell to the ground with all five of us sitting on top of him!

A doctor arrived but it was only after the third injection that he was subdued and went limp. An ambulance crew arrived and put him on a stretcher – with his head and shoulders over the top end and his feet hanging over the other end. We had difficulty closing the rear doors of the ambulance because of the size of the man. The ambulance took him away to Winterton Mental Hospital at Sedgefield. I never heard what happened to him afterwards.

Next day there was no appraisal of the incident and the only report I made to David Gidley was a verbal one to the effect “the shield has served its purpose and was undamaged”.

That shield may well have been the prototype or at least the fore-runner of shields later used in the Miners’ Strike of 1984. Whereas the original was heavy, cumbersome and very unwieldy to use (on the only occasion that it was tested!) modern shields are much more “user friendly”, lighter in weight, providing much better protection and clearer vision to the officer using them. Regrettably it is a sign of the times that the shield is now used so frequently.

Courageous Action: World War II.

P. C Wilfred A. Tilly. B. E. M.

by Ray Tilly (Ex Durham Cadet and Retired Thames Valley) There were many awards for acts of bravery during the Second World War and I’m sure that to family and friends, each individual is remembered for his or her heroism. My uncle, Wilfred (Wilf) Anderson TILLY was awarded the British Empire Medal for gallant conduct during enemy air raids in 1941.

Wilf, was born 11th February, 1906 at Birtley in County Durham, the son of a coal miner. He was first employed by the London & North Eastern Railway for a while, before joining the Metropolitan Police in September, 1925 at the age of 19 years –Warrant No. 114471.He was stationed at the Naval Station of Chatham and “H” Division until June, 1933, when he transferred to “G” Division where he continued to serve until retirement in October, 1954. His “collar number” was G.536.

It was in 1941, whilst serving in “G” Division that he was awarded the British Empire Medal for gallant conduct during enemy raids):- . The Supplement to the London Gazette contains an entry under “Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division Wilfred Anderson Tilly, Police Constable, “G” Division, Metropolitan Police “Police Constable Tilly has shown courage and exceptional devotion to duty throughout the period of the enemy air attacks.

On one occasion when a HE bomb demolished a four-storey dwelling house and people were trapped in the basement, Tilly worked untiringly in an effort to tunnel through the debris.

Later the same night a man was trapped in a demolished house. Gas was escaping but Tilly crawled through a small opening in an attempt to rescue him. Fire broke out in the wreckage but the Constable continued his efforts until forced to abandon the attempt when exhausted and overcome by the effects of smoke. His energy and bravery in the face of danger have been outstanding.”

The photograph shows Wilf outside of Buckingham Palace on the occasion of being presented with his medal. The two ladies in the picture are his sister (My mother) on his right and his sister-in-law on his left.

In his last few years of service, he was Chief Clerk to the Divisional Commander - one of which was Alec Muir who moved on to become the Chief Constable of Durham County Constabulary. Wilf must have convinced him that the north-east was a good place to live!

Wilf retired in 1954 with an Exemplary Certificate of Conduct – at that time getting a wage of 10 guineas He returned to the north east and worked as a Security Messenger at the Royal Ordnance Factory in Birtley until he fully retired in 1971. By this time, I had joined the Police Service – Buckinghamshire Constabulary, which amalgamated in 1968, to become part of Thames Valley Police.

Sadly he died of a heart attack in 1975.

GRACE HAVEN MERCY HOME, Pyin Oo Lwin, Mynamar (Burma).

Update October. Fred & Ma Lay Farley

Ma Lay and I are now back at the orphanage, resuming our ongoing charitable community work. Thank goodness that a recent life threatening illness to Ma Lay has now been contained successfully through the skills of a clever surgeon.

This has been a tragic experience, never to be repeated I hope in our lifetime.

We now have 52 children aged 3 years up to 19 years at the orphanage. They are wonderful children and I know that we could take them anywhere in the world and they wouldn’t let us down. They are non materialistic, unselfish and there isn’t a greedy bone in their bodies. They are polite and grateful for everything we do for them and jealousy doesn’t exist. They are not perfect by any means but I haven’t seen anything in England to compete with these kids.

When we arrived at our home, near the orphanage, it was very late at night so we didn’t see the kids. At 7a.m. the following morning, there they were, lined up outside of our house, waiting to greet us and shake hands; they have all been worried and have been praying for us both every day. Now they are helping in our home with the cleaning, cooking and gardening. Whatever we need, these kids are keen to help.

We now have 7 kids at the private English school – supported by myself and kind readers of the Copper Plate newspaper and the Durham Peeler magazine. More good news - .St May’s Anglican Church in Southampton is supporting a further 3 kids... They have been at this school for almost 6 months and they are progressing well. I’m told that three of them are now ahead of those who haven been there for years. They know that this is their only chance in life and to learn the English language is a wonderful opportunity. The education programme is a great achievement for us all and heartening to see their pleasure and aptitude in advancing in all subjects.

We are forever grateful for the wonderful support from sponsors in England through the Copper Plate & Durham Peeler and the Burma Children’s Fund who have made it possible to provide these wonderful opportunities.

We have now commissioned and completed a 6 feet high wall along the entire length of the eastern boundary of the orphanage; erected a basket ball stand and purchased footballs, volley balls, table tennis an netballs – providing the facilities for the sharing even more sporting and social interaction for the children.

The older children have been provided with 4 knitting machines and an embroidery machine and we have set up a temporary knitting factory to encourage home industry and self sufficiency. The first 28 sweaters produced were marketed successfully and we are now looking for a sales outlet. Some of these children are not academic but we are preparing them for their working future. If this venture works, we intend to support them when they return to their country villages by providing them with machines and hopefully helping them to make a successful living in future.

We are now looking for sponsorship to buy wool & cottons, pattern cards and logos to sustain the project and help its growth in manufacturing and selling commodities to provide funding for our orphanage. Rice has just sky rocketed – this month hit costs a further 4.5 dollars per bag. That is a lot of money to us.

Our next project is to build a substantial knitting factory, combined with the Cook’s quarters. She has 4 children, (their father recently died of Malaria) and she is currently residing in a tiny place near to the kitchen. We already have some modest funds but we still require around $300.00 U.S. for the project.

Looking ahead, we aim to build a Carpenters’ workshop to teach teenagers a trade. We already have a carpenter ready and waiting to help the children. He is skilled and experienced and prepared to teach those skills which will in future help them to return as tradesmen to their own villages when they leave the orphanage. Children who succeed will be rewarded with a complete box of carpenter’s tools to help them start their career.

We have a 16 year old boy artist who is showing a great aptitude in drawing Disney characters. At the moment he is painting the corridor walls to give us some colour. If he can get a sponsor, he can attend Art school at Mandalay – who knows where it could lead?

Dear Alan, I really do appreciate the Durham Peeler magazine. You obviously spend lots of time to produce. Keep it up. Can I just correct some minor details in David Gidley’s article (He was a hard task master when I worked for him). I was in fact a Flight Engineer in the RAF during the war and sat at the side of the pilot most times and trained to take over the controls in an emergency. With the introduction of the Force helicopter I was similarly the Observer, although once again capable of flying the ‘copter in an emergency. Jack Blair If you can help in the identification of personnel in pictures in the mag. or would like to contribute in any way, we’d like to hear from you – these things are of enormous interest to our readers and always stimulates greater interest. (Editor)

Hello Alan My name is Gillian Pitcher, I was a civilian working in Bishop Auckland Communications (then South Communications) for 20+ years, sadly having to take medical retirement in October last year. My husband is Jim Pitcher (retired Sgt 419). Yesterday, Jim received the latest copy of ‘Durham Peeler’ and I noticed quite a few old photographs in it. I have recently been looking through some old photographs, and found lots of my Dad with other policemen. My father was John Reginald (Jack) Beckett, PC 785. He served with Durham County Constabulary from 13th September 1937 until he died in service, on 11th May 1963. I believe he must have served in WWII as I have a photograph of him in Army uniform which says ‘Fohr Island 1941’ which I understand is off the coast of Germany I wondered if your magazine would be interested in them, maybe someone would be able to put names to the faces I don’t know? I was born in November 1961 and therefore have no memory of him, so if any of your readers are able to give me any information about him I would greatly appreciate it.

On the photo with the old car, Dad is on the right hand side. I would love to know the make of the car and who the other officer is. In the other one Dad is the one on the back row at the far right hand side. I have tried to zoom into the collar numbers on the other officers but cannot make them out, although it does look like the one in the middle of the front row is an Inspector.

My two uncles who were Sergeants were Sydney Beckett who was born 18/11/1919 in Driffield and died in 1984 in Durham. I do know he was the Chief’s driver at one point but nothing more about him. The other uncle was Fred Beckett who was born 28/08/1912 in Driffield and died in 1980 at Darlington. The only thing I know about him is that his name is on the St John Ambulance board in reception at Headquarters.

I do hope that our readers may be able to help Gillian. Please communicate through me in the first instance and I will forward the relevant information on to her Alan S. Watson

Clue. This was Jack at Durham Headquarters in the 1980s!

HELP WANTED: Jack Raybole is in this group - where is he?

Identification -Traffic Car photos. Summer 2009 Durham Peeler Dear Alan, I may be able to help you and Brian Gargate in identifying the traffic cars and one or two personalities shown in photographs and on page 11, summer 2009 Peeler.

Top left: This is the 6/80 Wolseley with Sid Elliott (later the Chief’s driver) and Vince Shaw (later Motor School Instructor).

Top right; Cars from right to left: Wolseley 4/44; Humber Super Snipe; Humber Super Snipe; Wolseley 18/80. Personalities: from right Sgt. ‘Ces’ Crawford; the group of 4 men together include Inspector Frank Allen and Sid Elliott.

Bottom left: M.G. 1.8 litre. (we had 3 in commission at one time).

Bottom right Judging by the raincoat attire, I tend to agree that this was probably a photograph of another Force (not identified). The black reflectors tend to suggest that this was taken during the War years. The car itself is either a Bentley or Lagonda Coupe – I cannot be certain as I cannot clearly see the radiator badge in the photographs. Alan Campbell

Dear Alan, The photographs supplied by Brian Gargate for the summer issue of the excellent Durham Peeler were most interesting from my perspective and I’d like to make my contribution by throwing some light on both the men and the cars in those four pictures.

The man standing at the driver’s door of Wolseley car KUP 858 is P.C. Syd Elliott, a long term instructor on the Motor School and one of the original members who started the school in Durham Yard in 1946. His contemporary (on the nearside of the same vehicle) is P.C. Vince Shaw who resigned from the Force and eventually became the Chief Driving Standards Officer for the Ministry of Transport for the North East of England.

The aforementioned car they are standing beside is a Wolseley Six/Eighty, 6 cylinders 80 BHP) of 1951 vintage. As a matter of interest, car KUP 858 was the first car I drove when appointed to Traffic in January, 1952. It was one of the best cars in its class in its day and well suited to the rigours of traffic work by P.C. Jim Bailes (later Superintendent) and myself. I owe a lot to Jim Bailes for his guidance and help during my initial time on Traffic.

“Thanks Jim.” Photo “Alf’s Car” The other cars lined up by the Motor School staff are two Wolseley 6/80s and 2 Humber Hawks of the same 1950/51 vintage.

The car on the bottom left of the page is an M.G. model 5A, 6 cylinder 2.8 litre, 100 h.p., registered in Durham in 1937, again with P.C. Elliott on its offside, I think, the senior officer to his left is Inspector Tommy Walton who was in charge of Traffic Department in 1945/46. The other officer is unknown to me.

The man standing on the driver’s side of Wolseley car KUP 406 is P.C. Cecil Crawford, who went on to the school to replace one of the original staff. Further along the line is P.C. Joe Millican and Inspector Gilbert Jarvis (later Ch. Inspector on Traffic Management).

The car at the bottom right I’m sure was never a Durham Police car. As far as I am aware, the only ‘soft top’ Police car was a 1937 16/80 Lagonda, driven by P.C. I’anson (later Sgt. Middleton St George).

In 1945, Durham County Constabulary was authorised by the Home Office to operate 21 cars only. They were a ‘mixed breed’ of Lagonda, M.G., Humber, Hillman & the above described Alvis. In 1946 they were all put up for sale and displayed in the underground Durham Market Place and postal bids were invited for each one. They were replaced by a fleet of 10 x Wolseley 18 h.p. cars with consecutive registration numbers HUP501 to 510 and Later, a further 10 x Wolseley 14 h.p. cars with reg. numbers HUP701 to 710. . Alf Charlton

The Owl and the Pussycat

by Tom White

There were always those heart stopping moments when trying up property on night shift, such as when your torchlight fell on a bare arm sticking out of the rubbish- only to find that it was an old dummy at the rear of the tailor’s shop!; falling into a shop- when the door had not been locked and lots of other “amusing” incidents. I’m sure you have recollections of your own?

One night whilst entering a passageway leading to the rear of four shops at Bishop Auckland, I heard a slight scuffling sound. I was not however prepared for the pandemonium that broke out when I gingerly stepped into the yard. Something knocked my hat off my head and my hair stood on end as a large pile of fish boxes cascaded down from a pile that had been stacked against the wall! The boxes scattered noisily on the floor just ahead of me.

Recovering myself, I was just in time to catch a glimpse of the culprit escaping over the wall and on to the railway which ran behind the shops. Yes it was only a cat, but what had displaced by hat? I then found to my relief that I had walked into a clothes line stretched across the yard (Phew!!).

A few years later, enjoying the tranquillity of the evening, I was making a “point” at the telephone kiosk at Hunwick, I stood with my back to the church wall when suddenly my helmet (yes, we had progressed? from the flat hat to the ‘pointy’ helmet) was forced down heavily on my head! Had I been hit over the head? There was nobody in sight and no accompanying sound. I guessed that someone must have thrown something heavy from a distance. I examined my helmet only to find some small feathers caught under the metal top piece -then the truth dawned on me. I remembered than an owl had swooped close to me on a previous occasion when I had cycled past this point. Yes, I knew who the culprit must have been, but it got (almost) clean away!

When I was a probationer constable at Bishop Auckland, I saw the most wonderful sight; one which I’m sure will probably never be seen again by a modern day policeman. It was nearly midnight on a Saturday night and I had been told to stay in the market place area until the late night buses left the town. It was also the place which late night revellers frequented as did drunken hawkers returning to their homes at the Batts. A sure fire crucible for trouble! I looked across the market place and to my relief and delight, saw two broad shouldered men standing unobtrusively on the opposite corner. Both men were over six feet tall and wearing uniform. Bloody hell! The Divisional Superintendent, W.B. Vickers and his second in command, Chief Inspector A. Thornton. Believe it or not, I really was pleased to see them too…Saturday night and real Bobbies on the beat POST MORTEMS I suppose that as a result of spending some of my boyhood days in my uncle’s slaughterhouse, watching animals being slaughtered and cut up, post mortems were no trouble to me. It was ironic that I should only attend TWO in my entire police career, both of which were straightforward cases of men who had suffered Strokes. However, an incident occurred in the second one which is unlikely to have been recorded elsewhere.

One evening in the late 1950s, I arrived at the mortuary at Shotley Bridge where the resident pathologist was the famous Dr. Stewart, who was responsible for the examination of exhumed bodies in the Windy Nook Murders. He was not present on my arrival and the mortuary attendant told me that he was showing a junior pathologist from another area, round his domain. But we could not start without THE man.

Mr. Stewart and his colleague duly arrived and they chatted. away in medical terms. As Dr.Stewart opened the dead man’s chest. As he was doing so, his knife slipped off a rib bone and badly cut his other hand. He removed his rubber glove and moved over to a sink, where he proceeded to run water over his wound. I could see he was making the wound bleed quite profusely – obviously to flush away the many germs on the mortuary knife…

However, he spent rather a long time over the sink, probably a good five minutes before allowing the attendant to apply a bandage and put on a new rubber glove. He then returned to the body, whereupon, he collapsed to the floor in a faint. I imagine this was a result of losing too much blood. The attendant asked me to run over to the Casualty Department in the main building to get a glass of water (the water in the mortuary was not of course fit for drinking!).

The Casualty Department Sister duly got me a glass of water, asking “Who is it this time?” I returned to the mortuary where Mr. Stewart was recovering, sitting in a chair. He went on to conclude the Post Mortem.

There was no joy for me in seeing this great man in distress, but I gained some consolation in seeing the smirk wiped off the Sister’s face when I told her that it was the pathologist who had fainted and not the policeman!

AM U S I NG ANEC DOTES

by the late Paul Greener

FIRST ARREST Your first arrest is one that sticks in your mind forever. For weeks prior you had to be accompanied by a “babysitter“, allegedly to show you the ropes even if it was just to show you where the tea spots were. Then the big day arrived, you were out on your own, although always on the beat closest to the police office. My maiden patrol was during night shift in Gates head. I’m referring to the days of no radios, no panda cars, and helicopters hadn’t even been invented. You were on your own, unaccompanied, but you did have a torch and a whistle.

Off I went into the night on the home beat, up High Street, through Jackson Street and down West Street. That was it, but it did have a car park in the middle of it, which closed at 7.00 p.m. By 1.30 a.m. I had walked that beat about 70 times. The local cats even began to acknowledge me.

As I was proceeding up the High Street (as the terminology of the day would be) I heard the sound of breaking glass which eventually aroused my suspicions… All that training sprang into action. I secreted myself in a shop doorway and observed a burglar helping himself from the jeweller’s window on the opposite side of the road. On my first night “a jewellry shop burglar”. What a catch, this could only lead me on to better things.

Off I went across the road, laid my hand on the culprit and uttered the rehearsed caution (which I cannot remember or I would have included it in this text) and he was informed that he was under arrest. He did not agree with this suggestion and began to struggle. Hang on a minute, this didn’t happen at training school and if it did there were 20 other officers in the class to help. The struggle continued only to be interrupted by a voice from the other side of the road. “Are you alright mate, do you want a hand?” Breathlessly I shouted back “No, I think I can manage”.

“I wasn’t talking to you black b******!” came the reply…..!

I eventually marched my ‘prize’ to the police office and proudly informed the station sergeant of my arrest only to receive a very strong telling off. Well, you can’t think of everything on your first night.

Who would have thought that it wasn’t a good idea to leave the jeweller’s shop open and unattended in the middle of the night in Gateshead?

ON THE BUSES It is the highlight of a dog handler’s career when his dog is involved in a “chase and attack”. For those in doubt this is when the dog is released to chase after a running criminal, and detains the criminal by a bite to the right arm. Believe me this doesn’t happen often. In training it is practised daily but on the street the criminal usually refuses to run away!

Many years ago in Darlington, vehicles at that time were routed down Duke Street and obeying a one way system, turned right into Skinnergate, where the Majestic bingo hall was sited. One evening a local criminal decided to relieve the bingo hall of its takings. The evident plan was to walk in, threaten the staff with a weapon, take the money, run out and make his escape via Skinnergate and into Duke Street. Unfortunately for the criminal, a local dog handler was on foot patrol in the area and by chance saw the criminal running out of the bingo hall chased by a member of staff. The dog handler gave the well rehearsed challenge “stop or I will release my dog”. The criminal continued to run! The dog was released, setting off at break neck speed!

The criminal turned right into Duke Street just as a bus began turning left into Skinnergate. The driver had in the process, remotely opened the passenger door to get a better view of the traffic before making his turn. The dog, in pursuit of its quarry, neared the junction at full speed, miscalculated his turn, unable to stop was forced to jump onto the bus via the open door. Undeterred, the dog continued his chase up the aisle of the bus, jumped onto the rear seat and longingly looked out of the rear window at the escaping criminal! What about the bus driver? He had been looking to his right when the dog had jumped on the bus and unaware of his new passenger, he had negotiated the corner, made his turn and continued his route….The embarrassed handler now had to make a frantic radio call to summon help for a police vehicle to chase and stop the bus in order to be reunited with his dog. Over the next few days, numerous bus tickets and timetables were pinned to the handler’s locker and the question was constantly asked of him “Do dogs have to pay on buses?”………

“Farmhand to Chief constable.” softback, 280 pages. ISBN: 978-1-905178-30

A biography by Alex A. Rennie. CBE, OStJ, QPM. MiD.

Bound Biographies

Alan S. Watson

Published by Book review by This title is available direct from the author; Alex. Rennie,1, Rowan Court, Worcester Road, Droitwich Spa, WORCS. WR9 8AH, tel. no. 01905 771317 at a bargain price of £10.00 (£13.00 inc. p. & p.) or from: M & D. Bookshops, High Street, Droitwich, Worcester.

More information at web site www.arennie.co.uk I am delighted to say that Alex. Rennie, at the ripe old age of 92 years has written and had published a delightfully succinct, sincere and dignified account of his very eventful working life, which started as a second horseman on a farm in his native Aberdeenshire, before crossing the Border to join Durham County Constabulary at the age of 20 years.

Alex Rennie was appointed as Police Constable in 1937 and stationed at Jarrow in the austere years leading up to and including the early part of World War II. Anyone who remembers Alex Rennie, (who served many years in Durham County Constabulary), will probably appreciate his vivid and good humoured recollections even more! His graphic and accurately described eye witness account of life in Jarrow is delightful. He can be incisive and is crystal clear in his attention to recollected detail. (Having served there myself in the 1960s’ I can confirm his capture of that certain atmosphere and down to earth philosophy of the “Jarrowvians”).

He skilfully but modestly guides the reader through his experiences in an ever changing social history, war memories and his slightly daring and amusing innovative handling of some tricky situations encountered his career over 45 years. This volume is a joy to read and has all the elements to be found in a good novel – but this is factual, cleverly woven together, making it a truly quaint and compelling read. A word of caution - I know I wouldn’t like to have been on the wrong side of Alex!

Perhaps it was his attitude that influenced his early selection for special training in saboteur activities in the event of the anticipated invasion of England. Fortunately for the Nazis, that confrontation never occurred! Despite being in a reserved occupation, he and his friend Bob Dobson, a fellow Durham officer, through sheer dogged persistence and determination, were accepted for military service. He was transferred to the RAF Volunteer Corps Reserve and trained as a pilot in America’s West Point. At some point he was personally briefed by Winston Churchill for a highly sensitive special assignment. He was later commissioned in the Royal Northumberland Fusiliers, serving under the command of General Horrocks, often in undercover operations in Europe.

He returned to Durham County Constabulary at the conclusion of conflict, advancing over a period of eleven years to the rank of Chief Clerk (Chief Superintendent) to Chief Constable, Alec Muir. Knowing the forthright nature of both men, I wish I could have been a fly on the wall during some of their “discussions…!” Clearly even in later years, Alex still has a great fondness for his ‘parent’ Force, frequently reflected in his memoirs.

Mr. Rennie had a distinguished career, including being a senior member of the Directing Staff at The Police Staff College, Assistant Chief at Shropshire and eventually in 1974/5, Chief Constable of West Mercia, (retiring in January, 1981) . Not bad for a young farmhand- still going strong at 92, more strength to your elbow Alex.

A compelling, exciting, and entertaining read. Honest to goodness value for money. recommended

Highly

Dear Alan, Thanks for the publicity and use of the photographs in the Summer ’09 Durham Peeler, regarding Alan Scrafton’s article in The Peeler and your footnote “inviting” similar action. Harry (Angus) and Brian Howe went down this route last year, before any knowledge of Alan Scrafton’s efforts.

Two venues were booked, North and South of the county and the menus, prices and dates arranged (November 08 and May 09).Widespread publicity followed in The Peeler and The Copperplate, unfortunately the response was so abysmal - it was impractical to continue.

Good luck to anyone else who tries!

We look forward to the N.A.R.P.O. lunch in September (2009) (you enjoyed it? Alan W.) .

Best wishes,

Cynthia Angus

If everyone can remember something this simple, we could save a life!!! Seriously..

STROKE ! Remember the 1st Three Letters...S.T.R.

If everyone can remember something this simple, we could save a life!!! Seriously..

During a BBQ, a friend stumbled and took a little fall - she assured everyone that she was fine (they offered to call paramedics) .she said she had just tripped over a brick because of her new shoes.

They got her cleaned up and got her a new plate of food. While she appeared a bit shaken up, Ingrid went about enjoying herself the rest of the evening Ingrid’s husband called later telling everyone that his wife had been taken to the hospital - (at 6:00 pm Ingrid passed away.) She had suffered a stroke at the BBQ. Had they known how to identify the signs of a stroke, perhaps Ingrid would be with us today. Some don’t die. they end up in a helpless, hopeless condition instead.

STROKE IDENTIFICATION: A neurologist says that if he can get to a stroke victim within 3 hours he can totally reverse the effects of a stroke... totally. He said the trick was getting a stroke recognized, diagnosed, and then getting the patient medically cared for within 3 hours, which is tough.

RECOGNIZING A STROKE - remember the ‘3’ steps, S.T.R . Read and Learn!

Sometimes symptoms of a stroke are difficult to identify. Unfortunately, the lack of awareness spells disaster. The stroke victim may suffer severe brain damage when people nearby fail to recognize the symptoms of a stroke.

Now doctors say a bystander can recognize a stroke by asking three simple questions: S *Ask the individual to SMILE. T *Ask the person to TALK and SPEAK A SIMPLE SENTENCE (Coherently) (i.e. It is sunny out today) R *Ask him or her to RAISE BOTH ARMS. If he or she has trouble with ANY ONE of these tasks, call emergency number immediately and describe the symptoms to the dispatcher.

New Sign of a Stroke -------- Stick out Your Tongue NOTE: Another ‘sign’ of a stroke is this: Ask the person to ‘stick’ out his tongue.. If the tongue is ‘crooked’, if it goes to one side or the other, that is also an indication of a stroke.

I have done my part. Have you?

Don’t take life so seriously!

The New Year 2010 is just around the corner. Message of the Day is: Life is short, Break the rules, Forgive quickly, Kiss slowly, Love truly, Laugh uncontrollably, and never regret anything that made you smile. .Remember -every sixty seconds you spend angry, upset or mad, is a full minute of happiness you won’t get back

Obituaries. Death Notifications.

Cyril PICKERING

Retired Police Officers & Widows

died 13th May, 2009

aged 88 years.

Colchester

Frederick CLEMENTSON died 28th May, 2009

aged 84 years

Chester le Street

Matthew A. HEDLEY

died 22nd June 2009

aged 73 years

Howden le Wear

David H. GIDLEY

died 22nd June.2009

aged 86 years.

Gloucester

Kenneth G. SAXBY

died 27th June, 2009

Middleton Teesdale

William MARSHALL

died 28th July, 2009

aged 80 years

Durham

Maureen HENDERSON died 8thAugust, 2009

aged 70 years.

Darlington

James BOOTH

died 7th October2009

aged 91 years

Spennymoor

Gordon THUBRON

died 25thOctober2009 aged 73 years

Newton Aycliffe

John HORN

died 27th October2009 aged 83 years

Crook

Widows Mrs. Ruby HALL

died 23rd July, 2009.

aged 80 years

Pelton Fell

We extend our sincere condolences to their loved ones and those nearest and dearest to them.

They are in our thoughts.

We are ever mindful of the service and valuable contributions each officer and their families have made to the Community and the Police Service in County Durham.

We strive to maintain the public respect, image and fine reputation of Durham Constabulary earned by our forebears.

Alan S. Watson Chairman

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N.A.R.P.O. (Durham Branch) Lunch Sunday, 6th September, 2009.

The eagerly anticipated Annual N.A.R.P.O. Lunch was again held at the Durham Indoor Bowling Centre and attended by 58 members and family. As predicted, all those who attended agreed that they had had a wonderful day in good company, an equally grand Sunday Lunch at which all the Ladies were presented with a fresh Carnation flower and an eye catching glass flower holder. Many of the members were also lucky enough to take away raffle prizes. I’m quite sure that we will have an even larger attendance next year.

On behalf of all those who attended, a vote of thanks was extended by Chairman Alan Watson to Angie & Barry Crawford who did almost all of the organisation of the meal, flowers and even the raffle prizes.

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RS1122

England, my England Goodbye to my England, So long my old friend Your days are numbered, being brought to an end To be Scottish, Irish or Welsh that’s fine But don’t say you’re English, that’s way out of line.

The French and the Germans may call themselves such So may Norwegians, the Swedes and the Dutch You can say you are Russian or maybe a Dane But don’t say you’re English ever again.

At Broadcasting House the word is taboo In Brussels it’s scrapped, in Parliament too Even schools are affected - Staff do as they’re told They must not teach children about England of old.

Writers like Shakespeare, Milton and Shaw The pupils don’t learn about them anymore How about Agincourt, Hastings , Arnhem or Mons ?

When England lost hosts of her very brave sons.

We are not Europeans, how can we be?

Europe is miles away, over the sea We’re the English from England, let’s all be proud Stand up and be counted - Shout it out loud!

Let’s tell our Government and Brussels too We’re proud of our heritage and the Red, White and Blue Fly the flag of Saint George or the Union Jack Let the world know - WE WANT OUR ENGLAND BACK !!!!