Charge of murder against an old Liverpool Police Officer
An inquiry into the case has taken place before the magistrates at Ormskirk.
The facts, so far as ascertained are as follows :-
In October 1831 the body of the wife of Thomas TRELFALL was found in the Leeds and Liverpool canal, near to Halsall Hill about three and a half miles from Ormskirk. TRELFALL was taken into custody on suspicion of the murder but was discharged for want of evidence. Since then he has been thirteen years in the Liverpool constabulary, but latterly has kept a beerhouse in Shropshire. It appears that an aged man who now lives in Ormskirk, and who has recently been ill has divulged the circumstances in connection with the alleged murder, which he has reluctantly concealed until now. This has again led to the apprehension of TRELFALL who is in custody at Ormskirk. He was taken before the magistrates and remanded.
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Liverpool Mercury May, 21st, 1852
Testimonial to Mr TOWERSON
The friends of Mr TOWERSON, late divisional superintendent of the police, have resolved to raise a subscription with the view of establishing him in business. We understand that, up to the occurrence of the unfortunate circumstances
which led to the abrupt termination of Mr TOWERSON'S connection with the police, his conduct had been irreproachable, as proved by the fact that he had gradually been promoted from the lowest to almost the highest position in the force.
Liverpool Mercury August 27th, 1852
On Wednesday evening, Mr TOWERSON, late divisional superintendent of the police, received a testimonial in the shape of a handsome silver goblet, and a purse containing upwards of 40 pounds. The proceedings took place at the house of Mr LINACRE, the Castle Inn North, Scotland Rd. Between 30 and 40 of Mr TOWERSON'S friends sat down to dinner on the occasion, under the presidency of Mr Thomas WATSON, and the vice presidency of Mr John ROBERTS. The chairman on behalf of the subscribers presented the testimonial in an eloquent speech, and Mr TOWERSON made a suitable reply. Several toasts, interspersed with songs, were given in the course of the evening, and the company separated at a reasonable hour.
The goblet, manufactured by Mr BROOME of Lord St, bore the following inscription ;-
"Presented by the friends of Mr John TOWERSON, as a mark of their esteem for his courteous, obliging, and zealous discharge of the duties of superintendent of the northern division of Liverpool police during a period of thirteen years, August 25th, 1852" We understand that Mr TOWERSON intends to commence the business of licensed victualler.
He later took up residence at 5 Great Homer St, licensed victualler and spirit vaults.
Transfer of licenses John TOWERSON, Great Homer St to William HALL, November 27, 1863
John TOWERSON born Beckermont, Cumberland in 1810, the son of John TOWERSON, farmer.
Married Bridget TYSON [nee BANKS] a widow at St Pauls Church, Liverpool on the 6th September 1846. When Superintendent of police living at Rose Place. Died in early 1871, aged 61.
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Liverpool Mercury September 25th, 1871
Retirement of police superintendent
Mr Alexander BOYD, one of the superintendents of the south town division of the Liverpool Police, has retired upon superannuation allowance. Mr BOYD has been 35 years in the force, joining an ordinary police constable, and going through the various grades until he reached one of the highest positions. During his years of service Mr BOYD has performed some important duties. At the time of the Chartist troubles he was instrumental in discovering a large quantity of arms which was concealed in Liverpool and was publicly complimented for his conduct by Baron ROLFE. Mr BOYD was popular with the force and his courtesy and obliging manners are well known to those who came in contact with him in the discharge of his duties. Inspector DAWSON has been promoted to the vacant post.
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Cheshire Observer
Saturday 22 June 1872
The late Head Constable of Birkenhead.
A memorial, numerously and respectably signed, was recently presented to the Home Secretary, in favour of a remission of the sentence of five years penal servitude passed upon Major Beswick, the head constable of Birkenhead for forgery in June 1862, we learn that Mr Bruce has intimated his refusal to accede to the prayer of the memorialises.
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Liverpool Mercury Aug, 22nd 1881
The application of the Head Constableship of Liverpool
Saturday was the last day for the receipt of applications from candidates for the appointment of chief constable of this city, the post being rendered vacant by the resignation of Major GREIG. C.B. We understand there are upwards of 100 applicants, the great majority of whom are military gentlemen. There are three applications by officials connected to the city police establishment, Mr Adam SIBBALD, chief-superintendent of the south division, George WILLIAMS, superintendent of the detective department, and John WILSON, one of the chief officials of the central police office. The salary of the new head constable on his appointment has been fixed at 750 pounds, Major GREIG who was appointed in 1852 received 500 pounds, which has since been increased to 1000 pounds and emoluments [amounting to about 200 pounds extra] At the commencement of Major GREIG'S term of office, the police force was about 700 men strong, over the years it was raised to a total strength of about 1200, and the number will be shortly increased by the addition of 100 constables. The applications will be taken into consideration at the weekly meeting of the watch committee tomorrow.
Liverpool Mercury, Sept 1st, 1881
Appointment of Head Constable of Liverpool
The Liverpool Watch Committee on Tuesday afternoon proceeded to the election of a head constable in the room of Major GREIG, C.B, who has resigned. Out of 74 applications for the vacancy, 5 candidates were selected at the last meeting for the further consideration of the committee. The following were the five selected candidates :-
Captain J. W. N. BOWER, aged 33, chief constable of Leeds, formerly in the 8th Regiment, and the late Sub-inspector of the Royal Irish Constabulary.
Lieutenant-Colonel G. H. COPE, aged 42, deputy chief constable of Cheshire.
Commander Wallace M'HARDY, R.N, aged 37, chief constable of Lanarkshire, formerly deputy chief constable of Essex.
Captain ORR, aged 44, chief constable of Greenock, formerly adjutant of the Lanarkshire Rifle Volunteers.
Chief superintendent SIBBALD, aged 56, senior chief-superintendent of the Liverpool Police Force.
The candidates were all called before the committee, who took a considerable time making their selection. The closest division was seven to five between Captain BOWER and Captain ORR. Finally the voting was unanimous in favour of Captain BOWER, who was therefore appointed. The appointment does not need the confirmation of the council, to which, however, a report will have to be made. The salary attached to the office is 750 pounds per annum. Captain J. W. Nott BOWER is the son of the late Mr J. BOWER, D.C.L, barrister-at-law, at York and grandson of the late General Sir W. NOTT, G.C.B. He was educated at Cheltenham College, and at the Royal Military College, Sandhurst, where he took the third place on the list, and obtained a commission without purchase in the army. He served in the 8th King's Liverpool Regiment, and was also in the 5th West York Militia. In 1873 he obtained an appointment as sub-inspector [chief constable] in the Royal Irish Constabulary, in which he served for more than five years, receiving a thorough police training. He was in command of large parties at the Limerick election, at Tipperary, when MITCHELL contested the county, and at Newry and Lisburn in times of disturbance from party processions. Mr BOWER has been for more than three years chief-constable of Leeds.
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Liverpool Mercury Nov 8th, 1883
Return of Superintendent WILLIAMS
After a pleasant and eventful American tour, Chief-superintendent George WILLIAMS, head of the Liverpool Detective Department has returned to active duty. During his seven weeks absence he visited, New York, Chicago, Boston, Philadelphia, Hartford and many other places at each of which he was shown the greatest courtesy and kindness, by the police authorities and private individuals. He had special opportunities afforded of testing and examining the fire appliances in several of the chief cities in the States and speaks in high terms of the completeness of the arrangements. Mr WILLIAMS also investigated the American detective system and visited several of the criminal centres of New York and elsewhere. When visiting Niagara Falls he had the special honour of signing his name in the visitor's book of the Prospect Hotel, immediately after that of one of the Prince of Wales son's, who were staying there at the time. Mr WILLIAMS voyaged by the Inman steamer City of Berlin, and in the course of the homeward voyage gave a lecture on some of his official experiences in aid of the Seaman's Orphanage, about 44 pounds was secured for the deserving charity.
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Portsmouth Evening News 6 April 1889
"JACK THE RIPPER."
THE LIVERPOOL POLICE RECEIVE A LETTER.
The Head Constable of Liverpool has received a letter signed "Jack the Ripper," and addressing Captain Nott-Bower "Dear Boss." 1n this missive the chief of the police is informed that the writer means to operate in Liverpool after the Whitechapel manner, and that the special neighbourhood he has chosen is a street not far from the Sailors Home. Of course the letter may be a stupid practical joke on the part of somebody who might easily be much better employed, and it may be hoped that this is really the case. But the Head Constable resolved to take adequate precautions, and he has consequently put the whole police force on their guard, the letter of the so called, "Jack the Ripper," being read to the men on the setting of the night and other watches at the various divisional stations. A little over six months have elapsed since the ghastly-looking letter and postcard bearing the above signature reached the head of the Metropolitan police, after four women had been murdered and horribly mutilated, and after some months quietude it was hoped that the last had been heard of "Jack the Ripper,"
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Liverpool Mercury, July 23rd, 1891
Retirement of a Cheshire Police-Superintendent
Superintendent LEIGHTON of the Cheshire Constabulary, Altringham Division is about to retire from the duties of that office, much to the regret of his colleagues and of the public of that division. He has been for upwards of 30 yrs in the Manchester and Cheshire police force.
Changes in the Cheshire Police Force
Arrangements have been made in the Cheshire Constabulary Force by which Superintendent WALKER of the Eddisbury Division will be transferred to Altringham. Inspector Meredith [Egremont] will be promoted to the rank of superintendent, and will take the place of Superintendent WALKER, Sergeant COOPER [New Brighton] has been promoted to the rank of Inspector at Runcorn, Inspector BOWYER [Runcorn], will be transferred to Egremont, Sergeant SKITT [Egremont] will have charge of the office at New Brighton, Acting-Sergeant HODKINSON [Egremont] has been made a Sergeant taking the place of Sergeant SKITT, and Constable EGERTON, [West Kirby] has been made Acting-Sergeant at Egremont.
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Liverpool Mercury, Dec 8th, 1891
The Liverpool Mounted Police
There was placed before the Watch Committee of the Liverpool Corporation yesterday, a report by the Head Constable Captain NOTT-BOWER, regarding the cost of the mounted section of the police force of the city during the year ending the 29th September last. In the report is given an account of the expenditure upon the section in the year named as follows :-
Provender, 420 pounds-12s-5d, veterinary attendance, 7 pounds -7s, saddlery etc, 18pounds -18s-2d, sundries, 67 pounds-1s-5d, purchase of horses, 125 pounds, total 639 pounds-5s. Thus says the head constable if the mere cost of "horsing" be considered, it is clear that compared with the old system of hosing the fire engines and prison vans by contract, which cost 1100 pounds per annum, there was a gain to the city of no less than 460 pounds. So far, therefore, the great economy effected by the mounted police system is undoubted, and the only point remaining for consideration is as to whether it is more to the public interest that the men employed should be trained and utilised as mounted police, or relegated to other duty. In his report of the 24th September 1889 the head constable had already expressed his opinion upon this point, and he still considers that [looked at from the point of view of "insurance" against future dangers] not only these 14 men, but at least double their number would be of far greater value so employed than if on ordinary duty. The wages and clothing of the 14 mounted police constables amounted during the year ending 29th September 1891, to 1136 pounds-7s. If from this amount be the 460 pounds gain on horsing, and the 297 pounds saved on yardmen's wages, the net cost of the mounted police would be 379 pounds, for which extremely trifling annual expenditure the committee secure the services of one inspector, one sergeant and twelve police constables upon an average cost of 27 pounds per man and horse over and above what the mere hosing of the vans and engines would cost. It will no doubt also have been noticed by the committee that unless accompanied by a reduction of the total strength of the police force [a course which the head constable feels sure the committee would be reluctant to sanction] a reverting to the old system of "horsing" the vans and engines would mean an increased expenditure of 460 pounds per annum.
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Liverpool Mercury 18 May 1892
Retirement of Liverpool Detective
Detective Sergeant BAXTER, who for many years has been a member of the police force, has retired much to the regret of his colleagues. Joining the force in March 1867, Mr BAXTER who retires on full superannuation has since then been identified with many of the most noted cases, and has proved himself to be of conspicuous ability. Latterly his name has been associated with the tracing and capture of the gang of base coiners now in jail, who during their brief career spread such a quantity of worthless counterfeits over the city.
Liverpool Mercury June 22nd 1892
Resignation of a County Police Superintendent
It is announced that Superintendent BARKER who for 11 years has been superintendent of the Prescot Police Division has retired owing to failing health. He is a native of Yorkshire and joined the county force in Preston in 1854, and has been successively stationed at Standish, near Wigan, Bury, Leyland and Barrow, from whence he was removed to Prescot on the formation of the borough force. He retires at the end of this month on a pension and will take up his residence at Parkside, overlooking Knowsley Park, lately occupied by Mr GRACE.
Liverpool Mercury 05 May 1894
Presentation to a Liverpool Constable
Last night in the parade room at Rose Hill Station, Mr John MOORE, who has retired on superannuation after serving over 25 years in the Liverpool Police Force was presented by Superintendent EGERTON with a beautiful marble time piece subscribed for by the officers and constables of D. Division. Superintendent EGERTON said he felt great pleasure in presenting Mr MOORE with this handsome testimonial, which showed he left the service with good widhes of the officers and men. Mr MOORE had done a great deal of special and important work, and in all intricate cases he had shown tact and shrewdness, and had always carried out his duty to the satisfaction of his superiors. Inspector WALSH, Sergeants CLATWORTHY, CAIN and TEAR also spoke of the good feeling that existed in the division towards Mr MOORE, who feelingly acknowledged the gift of his old colleagues.
Liverpool Mercury 18 February 1896
Changes in Birkenhead Police Force
Yesterday Mr John HUGHES Chief Detective Inspector of Birkenhead Police Force retired on Superannuation allowance after nearly 30 years service. Detective Inspector POTTS who has also been connected with the force for a number of years will succeed Mr HUGHES as Chief Detective Inspector .
Nottingham Evening Post 16 May 1902
Action against Liverpool police officers
At the Liverpool Assizes last night, before Mr Justice WILLS and a special jury, the trial was concluded after six days hearing of the action brought against Inspector DUCKWORTH, Chief Superintendent SPERRIN, and Detective Chief Inspector STRETTELL of the Liverpool Police for conspiracy and false imprisonment. Plaintiff contended that because he possessed letters incriminating the officers mentioned the latter entered into a conspiracy to procure his dismissal from the force, their action resulted in his being detained three days in a padded cell in Toxteth Workhouse Asylum. After hearing the defence the jury found for the defendants on the conspiracy charge, but awarded the plaintiff 200 pounds for false imprisonment.
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The Penny Illustrated Paper, December 05, 1903
Policeman-burglar gets 10 years
Pleading guilty to six charges of burglary, George MARTIN, aged 42, a constable in the Liverpool City Police force was sentenced by Mr Justice RADLEY to ten years penal servitude. MARTIN had been in the force for 17 years and had a good character. Being detailed to watch houses whose occupants had given notice to the police before going away on their summer holidays, MARTIN gained an entrance at night by means of duplicate keys, over 200 of which were found in his possession. In this manner he stole property valued at 1,500 pounds. Most of the booty was pawned by his wife, who, it was stated was under his influence. At one establishment an Indian shawl was pledged worth 120 pounds for 7s-6d. MARTIN took all the blame upon himself an exonerated his wife.
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Nov -Dec 1904
The Chief Constable of St Helens
There were 89 applications for the position of Chief Constable of St Helens, to which is attached a salary of 300 pounds, with house, coal and gas. Yesterday the Watch Committee reduced the number to 11, A. R. ELLERINGTON, Margate, Duncan MACMILLAN, Chief Constable, Renfrew, John Muir DAVIES inspector Liverpool City Police, James LEWIS, detective inspector, Wolverhampton, Martin JAMESON, Head Constable, Tyne River Police, J. W. A. DANBY, Chief Constable, Hyde, John Henderson WATSON, Chief Constable, Congleton, Charles FODEN, Chief Inspector, Liverpool, James BLAKELEY, Chief Inspector and Head Clerk, Leeds, J. R. CASBURN, Chief Constable GRANTHAM and Alexander MUIR, Chief Constable, Montrose. The St Helens Watch Committee on the 21st Nov reduced the number to 4, from whom a final selection will be made, namely, James BLAKELEY, Chief Inspector and Head Clerk, Leeds, A. R. ELLERINGTON, Chief Constable, Margate, Charles FODEN, Chief Inspector, Liverpool City Police and Martin JAMESON, of South Shields, chief of the Tyne River, Dock and Piers Police. On Dec 21st the St Helens Watch Committee appointed Mr A. R. ELLERINGTON, Chief Constable, Mr ELLERINGTON first joined the East Riding Constabulary in 1891, and has been Chief Constable of Margate for the past two years.
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The Penny Illustrated Paper, September 23, 1905
A smart detective
Chief Inspector STRETTELL, the head of the Liverpool police detective force has resigned after 42 years service. He did excellent work his department managed on one occasion to get a man into the chimney of a room where conspirators were meeting and the man heard the details of a plot to blow up the town hall with dynamite. A bomb was subsequently discovered near the west door of the town hall. Another criminal enterprise which the detective helped to suppress was that of a band of garrotters who disguised as women used to waylay persons in the suburbs.
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The Penny Illustrated Paper October 28, 1905
Sherlock Holmes in court
Sir A. Conan DOYLE, who is understood to be gathering material for a new series of Sherlock Holmes stories dealing more especially with bank frauds, caused some surprise in the Liverpool Police Court last week by unexpectedly walking up the steps leading from the cells to the dock.
Accompanied by the chief constable he had been going through the under-world of the police buildings in order to gather local colour. As it happened the court had just finished its business and the stipendiary was busily signing documents before departure for the day.
"Sherlock Homes" and the magistrate were introduced. Thereupon the stipendiary, Mr STEWART, expressed his regret that the famous story writer had not appeared a little earlier.
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Lichfield Mercury, Friday 14 April 1911
Three Airedale terriers arrived in Liverpool on Saturday to enlist in the Liverpool City Police Force . These animals are half the detachment of six ordered by the police, and are intended for night duty as assistants to the constables engaged on the lonely suburban beats.
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Liverpool Echo, 15 June 1911
Yesterday at noon, Mr Dunning, Head Constable of Liverpool, attended at the Fire Station yard to inspect the contingent of the Liverpool Mounted Police which is proceeding to London to take part in the horse show at the Olympia. Four constables have been selected to represent Liverpool, and they are under the charge of Superintendent Gibson and Inspector Kebby. All the men selected belong to H. Division, they are military men and formerly belonged respectively to the 5th Dragoon Guards, the 3rd Hussars, the 9th Lancers and the 16th Lancers. The superintendent belonged to the 2nd Dragoon Guards and the inspector to the 9th Lancers.
Two of the police horses going up for competition this year, competed last year, and two are new. The donor of the mounted police prizes is Mr Walter Winans and the amounts are, 30 pound, 1st prize, ten pound 3rd, and two other prizes of five pounds. Men and horses looked at their best in the yard, but, at Olympia it would not be prudent to predict victory though the biggest opinion in generally held of the Liverpool Mounted Police.
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Liverpool Echo, 25 February 1913
Superintendent Edward Parker. of the Birkenhead Police Force, has been appointed Chief Constable of Birkenhead in succession to Mr. Walter Stocks Davies who resigned through ill-health some months ago.
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Liverpool Echo, 25 February 1914
Police for the Parks
Suggestion to supersede the Keepers.
At the annual meeting of the Liverpool Female Penitentiary in the Town Hall, Councillor J. A. Thompson strongly criticised the system of the public parks being open late at night, usually without any lights, and said that time after time young people went there solely for the purpose of indulging their passions. One could not make a beautiful place without its being made a resort for the promotion of this unfortunate degradation. He urged that something ought to be done to check it.
Alderman R. Dart said he cordially agreed with these remarks, and urged that it was high time that the park keepers should be superseded, with proper care that they should not be thrown out of employment, and the parks be placed under the control of policemen. The parks had now reached state when they aught to policed.
Chairman interviewed. Alderman J. R. Grant [chairman of the Parks Committer], pointed out that the question of handing over the control of the people in the parks to the City Police was by no means new. In some other boroughs the police had, had charge of the parks for many years, but he believed the moral results did not differ materially from those attained in Liverpool. In this city each park-keeper was sworn as a special constable, and so could exercise the powers of arrest in common with ordinary constables. From long experience the park-keepers knew well the people who needed watching. The committee might review the subject, but he did not think much good could be expected to result from a change, which could be costly. On the people themselves must mainly depend the standard of public conduct, both in the parks and the streets.
Liverpool Echo, 27 February 1914
Police for the parks
Echo letters page
I notice [writes "Seftonian] that a proposal was made at the annual meeting of the Liverpool Female Penitentiary to replace the park-keepers by police-officers, and possibly this would be beneficial to the morality of the parks, the police would doubtless exercise greater authority than the keepers do at present.
It is not only in the evenings police authority would be beneficial but also during the day, for one has only to pay a visit to Sefton Park, any fine afternoon to see how girls are molested and insulted by young men [mostly of the out-of-work or do-not-want-work type, who thrust their attentions on nursemaids and servants. Many of the girls are afraid to call the attention of the keepers to the conduct of these pests, who often follow them about wherever they may walk, and in many cases succeed in forcing their attentions on them, but if police where substituted for keepers, no doubt they would be better able to keep an eye on these cads, who would be too frightened to molest girls right under the eye of the law.
Men are not allowed to molest women in our streets in this manner, why, therefore, should this state of affairs be allowed in our parks?
It would be a good thing for some of these girls it they could induce their brothers or sweethearts to follow them at a reasonable distance when proceeding through the park, then a richly deserved thrashing might be administered. If this course was adopted for a few weeks the parks would soon be fit for respectable girls to walk in without fear of molestation.
Liverpool Echo 16 March 1914
Retirement of police inspector
Today Inspector HARESNAPE retired from the Liverpool City Police Force, after serving 26 years. He joined the force in 1888 as a constable in A. Division, in 1894, he was raised to the rank of sergeant and transferred to E. Division, Kirkdale district where he remained for 12 years. In 1906 he was advanced to the rank of Inspector and transferred to B. Division, Prescot St. Mr HARESNAPE has had a large experience in dealing with all classes of police work and he holds the Watch Committee's good service medal.
Liverpool Daily Post, May 12th, 1914
Police Officials Retirement
Superintendent WEBB
Mr Joseph Henry WEBB, Superintendent of police at Old Swan retires on Monday next. He is one of the oldest and most popular officers in the Liverpool constabulary. He goes into private life after a noteworthy service of 26 years in the county and upwards of 19 years in the Liverpool City Police, thus establishing almost a record. He is now 63 years of age, straight as a lance, young looking, apparently fit to go on for twenty years longer at least.
He joined the police force at Preston on May 1st, 1869, Colonel BRUCE being the Chief Constable of Lancashire. He was first stationed at Old Swan, where he began his career as a constable, and he ends it there as a superintendent. His activities have all centred around this portion of Lancashire, and therefore no constabulary officer is better known in a wide area. In July 1870, he went to Garston as a constable, in January 1877, he was attached to Aigburth Vale, Division, then in the county as a sergeant, and he remained there till January 1886, when he was sent to the new police station at Lark Lane, now the headquarters of E. Division. Raised two years later to the rank of inspector he was transferred to Woolton, then in the Prescot Division of the county. Subsequently he was transferred to Old Swan as an inspector and in 1895 when Liverpool extended its boundaries he was taken into the City Police Force on his standing rank. Some two years later he was made superintendent of Old Swan, where he remains till the end of his official career
Superintendent WEBB served under three head constables in the county, Colonel BRUCE, Hon Captain LEGGE, and Colonel MOORSOM. He also served under three head constables in Liverpool, Captain NOTT BOWER, Mr Leonard DUNNING and the present Head Constable Mr F. CALDWELL. He is the proud possessor of the Queen Victoria Diamond Jubilee Medal, and King George Coronation Medal, a highly valued decoration, owing to the fact it is rarely conferred.
Mr WEBB was popular wherever he went for one reason, because he was always kind and helpful to those over whom he had charge. He was the soul of courtesy, a pattern of punctuality, and example to all. He felt it his duty always to keep in the background until he was compelled to act. Persuasion with him was the great principle he acted upon to keep others within the law but when he was called upon to exercise authority, he did so in an effective way.
He often did special duty when Royalty was in the neighbourhood. His division lying between Knowsley and Liverpool he had frequently to make arrangements for the Royal progress between Aintree and Knowsley, and on every occasion these were satisfactory. Of imposing height and possessing remarkable physical power Superintendent WEBB was in frequent demand where the lawless and turbulent element threatened the public peace. He did notable service at Burnley during the strike in 1878 at the colliery strike at Leigh, and the dock strike at Garston in 1882 when a baton charge was reluctantly made to drive back the rioters, who were endeavouring to bring out men from various ships. He was highly commended by the Hon Captain LEGGE for his courage and adroitness in quelling a political mob in in Dalton Square, Ulverston, in 1880. He took a prominent yet humane dutiful part on Red Sunday riot. He fearlessly answered the call of duty but in the midst of the melee he was knocked down and severely injured, while his friend Superintendent BOLTON of Birmingham, had his leg broken.
The retiring superintendent comes of an old police family. His grandfather Joseph WEBB joined the Lancashire County Police when first established after the passing of the County Police Act 1839. He became an Inspector at Blackburn before Blackburn was a borough. His grandfather had four sons in the same police force. One [James] was pensioned off as superintendent at Garstang, another [John] was pensioned off at Bacup as a sergeant, and two others left the force for other situations. Superintendent WEBB is the son of one of the brothers who discontinued his police association.
Superintendent WEBB has taken a great interest in Church matters in the district filling the office of aides man at St Anns Church, Stanley, for many years until recently. He was also a popular member of Fairfield Private Bowling Club. He is still going to reside in the district, much to the delight of those who have known him so long.
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Liverpool Echo 29 May 1914
LIVERPOOL POLICE INSPECTION.
Yesterday, the annual inspection of the Liverpool Police was held in Sefton Park.
Liverpool Police, complimented on annual parade.
Lieutenant Colonel Eden yesterday conducted the annual inspection of the Liverpool Constabulary in Sefton Park. Some 1200 officers of various ranks were on parade. In the march past trotted the eight police Airdales. Subsequently the mounted police, about three dozen in number, circled the ground in various formations, and the final gallop had as much precision and celerity as the similar manoeuvre by a cavalry detachment. It was a most interesting spectacle.
The Inspector, in a brief interview, expressed himself well pleased in what he had seen. Complimentary reference was made to the appearance and work of the horsemen, and he added while these provided as usual, the most showy part of the parade, the rest of the men looked uncommonly well and marched in very orderly fashion. He had also a good word to say about the cyclist corps. With Colonel Eden on his round of inspection was the Lord Mayor, as well as Alderman Maxwell and Councillor Evans, the chairman and vice chairman respectively of the Watch Committee.
The Head Constable attended the parade in full uniform, and accompanying him were his two assistants, Messers L. D. L. Everett and W. A. Smith.
W. A. Smith, Colonel Eden today will inspect nearly 1,000 men, whom duty precluded from taking part in the parade yesterday, and he will also pay visits to the various police buildings.
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Liverpool Echo, 1st April 1914
LIVERPOOL'S POLICEWOMAN
MAIN BRIDEWELL MATRON APPOINTED.
TO PROTECT GIRLS.
The Watch Committee of Liverpool have appointed a woman who will hold the nominal rank of police inspector. The subject has been discussed from time to time, but has been postponed indefinitely it being of the opinion of the authorities that the present male force was sufficient for all purposes. The example of other countries and towns in England has, however, brought the matter up cogently, and the committee determined to follow the example set by others. The choice of the "first woman policeman" fell upon Mrs HUGHES, and the appointment appears to be an excellent one. She is well known in connection with police work of a special type, and has for the last two years been matron of the main bridewell in Cheapside. In other spheres of Corporation work she is also well-known, her experience in this way being considerable, and likely to be of much practical use in her new duties. Before becoming matron of the main bridewell she was an assistant sanitary inspector in Dr HOPE'S department and there acquired valuable knowledge.
She has had the superintendence of all grades of female offenders at the main bridewell, and is well posted in the undercurrents of the lower strata in which they move. She knows alike their weaknesses, temptations and criminality. She is, in fact eminently fitted for the work of prevention, supervision and suasion.
It is not quite known what the special duties of Mrs HUGHES might be, but it may be said generally that she will direct her attention to children and girls of a tender age who may be in danger through bad companionship, and that persons engaged in the white slave traffic will be the subject of the closest scrutiny.
A roving commission all over the city will it is believed, be the first occupation of Mrs HUGHES. She will probably carry some kind of badge or indication of her authority and in case of need, a police whistle will bring her ready assistance in any quarter of the city.
The city, is already amply equipped with a constabulary of about 2,000 men, foot, horse-mounted and cycle-mounted, not omitting trained dogs, controlled by a Head Constable, assistant head constable and deputy assistant with a large number of superintendents, inspectors etc. One "policewoman" among so many may seem small, but the motive of her appointment is urgent and likely to be productive of much good.
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Liverpool Echo, 21 May 1914
Several Liverpool police officers have recently emigrated Canada. Last night two others, who will emigrate, Constables Borthwick and Whitelaw, were guests a hot-pot supper at the Imperial Hotel. Lime-street. Chief Inspector Formby. on behalf of the "A" division, and in the absence of Chief Superintendent SMITH, presented each of the men with suit and cigarette cases.
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Liverpool Echo 11 November 1914
Retirement of police sergeant
A pleasing function took place on the retirement of Sergeant CAMERON from the Liverpool City Police Force after serving 26 years. His comrades as a token of their esteem presented him with a handsome marble timepiece and an umbrella, and an umbrella for Mrs CAMERON. He joined the force in 1888 and was attached to B. Division, being promoted to sergeant 13 years ago he was attached to D. Division where he served up to his retirement.
Liverpool Echo 14th, November 1914
Police Inspector retires
Inspector ASHCROFT of Huyton is retiring from the County Police Force on the 30th inst, after upwards of 36 years service, for 12 of which he has been Inspector at Huyton. Prior to this he was 12 years sergeant at Seaforth, and on leaving he was presented by the inhabitants with an illuminated address and purse of gold. He was awarded a Kings Coronation medal for good conduct and long service.
Mr ASHCROFT is a native of Prescot and before joining the force he served over 10 years in the Prescot Volunteers, receiving a medal for long service. He served over 10 years in the watchmaking trade with Messers John WYCHERLEY and Sons of Prescot. Inspector ASHCROFT is popular both with the members and public.
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Liverpool Daily Post December 31st 1914
Duties of Special Constables
Interesting case at Birkenhead
Orders from Head Constable
A special constable Sidney MILLAR, residing at Parkstone Rd was fined 10s and 6s-6d costs, at Birkenhead Police Court, yesterday, for unlawfully neglecting to obey a certain order on December 19th.
Mr Edmund SPENCER, deputy town clerk, who prosecuted said that this was the first prosecution of the kind in Birkenhead. Upwards of 1,000 public spirited men volunteered for duty as special constables. These men had forfeited voluntarily a large proportion of their leisure time, and were to be honoured and respected. At the same, when a man undertook that work he was bound to carry out all orders.
Originally the various patrols employed in guarding municipal works numbered seven or eight, but about the end of November the Chief Constable reduced the patrols to three or four men. I then became a serious matter for a special constable to absent himself. Business was no excuse for not attending to duty.
The defendant, to his honour was one of the first to volunteer. On September 27th, he failed to present himself for duty, and was written to by Mr Cecil HOLDEN. He did not reply and further letters were sent on October 9th and 23rd. To the latter letter alone did he reply, and his reply was in what might be described as an absolutely insubordinate vein. The Chief Constable decided to take no notice of the letter. At the end of November Mr MILLAR was recommended by the officer in charge for a captaincy, but the Chief Constable did not approve the appointment. Subsequently the defendant was appointed to another patrol. On December 8th defendant wrote to Mr H. R. PORTER, the officer in charge, a letter, in which he absolutely refused to acknowledge any subordination to Mr PORTER. He also sent in his resignation, but this was not accepted, and the Chief Constable ordered him to take duty between 5pm and 10pm on December 19th. Defendant failed to turn up at the time appointed but a card was received from him at about 7pm on December 19th, stating that his business prevented him from attending.
Defendant, "It is not a fact that work has been accepted as an excuse for absence within the last fortnight?"
The Chief Constable, "I believe so."
Mr Cecil HOLDEN, said that within certain exceptions he was satisfied with the attendance of Mr MILLAR.
Alleged astonishing threat
Defendant apologised for the letter sent to Mr HOLDEN. He submitted that on December 19th, he had just cause for not being present. Previous to that he had not been absent for twelve weeks, and his total number of absences would not be more than four. Business had always been taken as an excuse for non attendance. In addition to his other work he had undertaken the organisation of a charity concert, which took up more time than he expected.
Mr SPENCER, "Do you deny you made this statement to your superior officer?""I have sent in my resignation and staff and badge. If any Germans came I would stand aside and let them poison the water or do anything they want."
Defendant made no reply.
Mr G Caradoc REES, who was formerly in charge of the patrol of which the defendant was a member, said that business had always been accepted as an excuse for absence. MILLAR had offered to take other duty when he was unable to attend during the hours allotted to him.
Cannon O'TOOLE said the defendant was an admirable man, and was full of patriotic feeling.
Mr SPENCER said the prosecution made no allegation against the character of the defendant.
Mr L. C. ELMSLIE, [who sat on the bench with Mr J. W. P. LAIRD] said they found the case proved. Special constables must remember that they are bound to obey all orders of superior officers, irrespective of all other interests.
There had been a bit of temper shown in this case, and they would impose as light a penalty as they could, but if any other cases of that kind occurred they would be dealt with more severely.
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Liverpool Echo 26 April 1915
PC 55A KNEALE who has just retired from the Liverpool City Police Force has been the recipient of a handsome testimonial from his comrades. This consists of a gold watch and a gold brooch for Mrs KNEALE. The constable who was greatly esteemed by his comrades has been 26 yrs in the constabulary, 23 of which have been passed in the river section. River Superintendent JASPERSON made the presentation. The retiring constable is taking up a position in the Customs
Liverpool Echo, 23rd August 1915
This forenoon some seven members of the Liverpool police force went from Lime-street Station en route for France. They had, with the Head Constable's permission, volunteered for service as military foot police with our forces in France. Their immediate objective is Aldershot, where they will report themselves. This makes altogether about 510 police from Liverpool, who have joined as reservists, volunteers, foot police etc.
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Liverpool Echo, 19th Oct 1915
FROM BLUE TO KHAKI
LIVERPOOL POLICE MARCH AWAY TO ENLIST.
"Goodbye and good luck," was wished on Exchange flags to-day to fifty Liverpool police officers who had enlisted, and the gallant fellows were escorted to the station by their police band. The Lord Mayor complimented the men on their patriotism and wished them a safe return.
Over 500 members of the force had been parted with, and he called on the citizens to provide 4 to 5 hundred special constables who would help to maintain the order of the city. Alderman MAXWELL, Chairman of the Watch Committee answered what he said might be a possible question, "Why had these men not gone already?"
Every one of them had been anxious to go, but they could not possibly be spared before, nor could they resign. It was real patriotism on their part that they should have stayed when they were needed, and have gone as soon as they had the opportunity.
The Liverpool police record in enlistment is a most honourable one indeed. Some 513 members are already serving in the forces, a large proportion in Guards battalions, and three have one the D.C.M. There have been 32 killed in action. Nevertheless in view of the present urgent demand for men the Head Constable has set further example by allowing another 50 unmarried members to enlist, and it was these stalwart men who are to change the blue for the khaki, who were inspected on the flags.
The Head Constable and Assistant Head Constable were present at the ceremony.
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Liverpool Daily Post, October 12th, 1915
New Liverpool Police Station
Divisional headquarters, formal opening ceremony
The new police station in Prescot Street B. Division, of the City Constabulary, which cost about 11,000 pounds was formally opened yesterday afternoon the inaugural ceremony being performed by Mrs M. H. MAXWELL, wife of the chairman of the Watch Committee. The building, designed on a plan calculated to afford the greatest convenience, contains, besides full suites of offices for executive purposes, thirteen cells for prisoners each capable of holding a number of prisoners. At the proceedings, yesterday, there was a large attendance of members of the Watch Committee, justices of the peace, and others. Alderman MAXWELL presided.
The Head Constable, Mr F. CALDWELL gave an interesting sketch of the development of the police force in the city. The first properly organised police force in the city, he said, was started in 1836, numbering 390 men, Mr WHITTY was the head constable. At that time all the work was done from one central office, there being no divisional stations. Nine years later the strength of the force had doubled, and the town was divided into two, north and south divisions. Two superintendents were appointed. That system went on for 38 years until 1883 when Captain NOTT BOWER, the then head constable, felt that a further sub division was necessary. The force numbered 1,300 and the population had grown. Five divisions were created, A. B. C. D and E. A new station was built for A. Division in Hatton Garden, and a new station for E. Division in Westminster Road. The police stations in the other divisions were not re built, they were simply patched up. As the years went on money had to be spent on the old police stations to meet the increased requirements. Eventually they were condemned by the Government inspector.
They had just completed building a new station at Rosehill for the D. Division. That afternoon they saw the completion and opening of the B. Division station. There now only remained the police station in C. Division to rebuild, for that, however, they would have to wait until peace and prosperity again reigned. The money for the erection of the new Prescot Street station, was a sum which had originally been intended to spend on a station for a new division. By rearranging the boundaries of the existing divisions they had obviated the need for the new division and the money which should have been spent on a station for that additional division had been used to defray the cost of the new Prescot Street station.
Mr William EVANS, deputy chairman of the Watch Committee, presented to Mrs MAXWELL a solid 18 carat gold Yale key, set with rubies pearls and diamonds, with pin on the back, in silver gilt casket engraved with the inscription, "Opening of the Prescot Street, Police Station, Liverpool 11th, October 1915. Presented to Mrs Maxwell Hyslop Maxwell by Member of the Watch Committee" The key was made by Messers John BYRNE and Son Ltd, Bold Street, Liverpool.
Mrs MAXWELL in accepting the key, said that she regretted that the birthday of the new station should fall in the midst of this great war, when so many members of the police force were fighting in France. She regretted also that so many of them had already passed behind the sunset. The term police station recalled so many unpleasant memories for her. At the beginning of the war she and her husband found themselves prisoners in Germany, and she remembered how she was escorted by the police through the various towns. She considered the new station a model one. Mrs MAXWELL then formally unlocked the door of the new station and declared the building open.
On the call of Alderman WATTS seconded by Alderman DUNCAN thanks were accorded to Mrs MAXWELL.
The Police Band under the baton of Mr C. H. BICKS, rendered a programme of music as the visitors made a tour of inspection through the new station.
Sergeant GILBART
Liverpool Echo, 24 December 1915
Liverpool Police officer retires
Sergeant GILBART of the Liverpool Police B. Division has retired on pension after completing over 33yrs faithful service. He holds the long service medal and clasp and the Coronation medal. He has just been presented by the men of his section with a framed group of his section. A strict disciplinarian he was highly respected by all. He was prominent in the High Rip Gang many years ago, and was on duty in the neighbourhood of Scotland Rd and the long enquiry when Judge DAY took the matter up, visited the neighbourhood and was successful in suppressing the gang. Mr GILBART has four sons in the army, two have been injured.
Liverpool Echo,5th January 1916
D. S. C
A Liverpool man's thrilling deed
In the list of names of those to whom the King has ordered the award of the D.S.C, in recognition of bravery and devotion to duty during mine-sweeping and mine-laying operations appears that of Sub-Lieut William Quinn M'KEOWN, R.N, second son of Superintendent M'KEOWN of the Liverpool City Police Force. Sub-Lieut M'KEOWN, who is 24, has had considerable service in the mercantile marine. He began his career in sailing vessels, on his second voyage he was wrecked, he subsequently passed the necessary examinations and became chief mate. At the outbreak of war he was with the Harrison Line and offered his service to the Admiralty and was accepted. He was given a commission as sub-lieutenant.
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Liverpool Echo, 11th April 1916
"THE SPECIALS"
COMMANDANT IN LIVERPOOL.
Mr. Archibald BROWN, who has been promoted to the rank of honorary superintendent of police and assistant commandant to Colonel CHINN of the Corps of Special Constabulary in Liverpool, is well-known in the city being managing director of Messers Archibald BROWN and Co Ltd, coppersmiths, Barton St. Possessed of considerable experience in police work, he has had charge of A. Division's Specials since the war began and he now makes an urgent appeal for recruits to replace the members of the force as they are called to the colours. There is a pressing need for 300 more special constables and as 6 weeks is required for training in police work, ambulance and ju-jitsu, applications from men between 41 and 50 who are not doing manual labour during the day should be made at once to the Head Constable or any convenient police station.
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Liverpool Echo 21st April 1917
Garston police officer retires
Police Sergeant Robert SMITH, who this week retired from the Liverpool Police Force on pension owing to ill health after 35 years service, has been 18 years at Garston. Joining the Lancashire County Constabulary in 1882, he was attached to the Bootle Division under Superintendent WALSH, and when the Bootle Borough Police were established he decided to remain with the County Constabulary, being moved to Walton on the Hill, and subsequently to Waterloo. He left Waterloo on being promoted to the rank of sergeant, after 8 years service and was presented with a gold watch from the residents. For 2 years he was stationed at Widnes, and after that was removed to Garston, under Inspector McKNEAD.
Throughout his career Sergeant SMITH has shown considerable tact in discharging his duties, particularly during the religious disturbances which took place in Garston district some years ago, and also during the various strikes. He possesses the long service medal for 25 years service without adverse report and was awarded a bar on completing 30 years service. He is entitled another bar for completing 35 years service. His retirement has been hastened through a serious internal trouble which necessitated an operation at the Royal Infirmary some weeks ago.
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Liverpool Echo, 4th July 1916
Six brothers serving
Mr William DEVONALD, who is over age, and who, in lieu of being able to get into the Army or Navy, joined the Liverpool Police Force as temporary member in the hope of releasing a younger man, has six brothers serving in the Army and Navy. They all joined soon after the outbreak of the war. The mother resides at Pickeston, near Milford Haven, with an eighth son.
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Evening Telegraph, Friday 13 July 1917
Inspector H. HOWARTH of the Liverpool City Police Force has been appointed chief constable of Rochdale at a salary of 400 pounds a year. He was at one time a journalist.
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Liverpool Echo Aug 6th 1917
Police presentation
A presentation has just been made at the Rose Hill Police Station by the Head Constable to 2nd Lieut WALKER of a sword and wristlet watch. The recipient joined the Liverpool police force in 1905, stationed at Rose Hill, and was for four years attached to the Criminal Investigation Department. In April 1915 he joined the Royal Garrison Heavy Artillery. The presentation marked the gallant officers honour of promotion to commissioned rank.
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Liverpool Echo, 25th Sept 1917
Corporal Angus MACKENZIE , member the Liverpool police force (175 E Division), has been home on leave, and before going back Franco last night he was presented by his comrades with wristlet watch and shaving kit in recognition of him having been awarded the emeritus medal for courageous conduct on the field. The presentation took place at Westminster Rd, bridewell and made by Chief Inspector GILLANDERS, in the absence of Superintendent TOMLINSON
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Liverpool Echo 17th, October 1917
Garston police officer retires
Sergeant David GOODWILLIE, of the Liverpool City Police, Force, who for the past ten years has been stationed at Garston, has retired on pension due to ill health after 26 years of service. He has been rewarded on many occasions by the Watch Committee for zeal in the performance of his duties and is the possessor of the long good service medal and the Shipwreck and Humane Society medal and diploma for saving life.
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Liverpool Echo, 11 December 1917
RETIREMENT OF WELL-KNOWN LIVERPOOL OFFICER,
An old and valued member of the Liverpool Police Force, in the person of Mr. Edwin Sperrin, Chief Superintendent and Chief Clerk, retires to-day on, superannuation allowance, after thirty-eight years of service. Up to 1886 Mr SPERRIN was engaged in the detective department, and since then has served in the Head Constable's office. In 1888 he was appointed chief inspector and chief clerk, and in 1892, chief superintendent. He has now accepted the position under the Ministry of live stock sub-commissioner for the Liverpool and Birkenhead district.
At todays meeting of the Watch Committee the chairman Alderman MAXWELL wished Mr SPERRIN long life and success in his new work.
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Liverpool Echo, 13 March 1918
PRAISE FOR CITY OFFICERS.
The Liverpool Head Constable Mr Caldwell, has been informed that Colonel Kell, of the War Office, has expressed hip appreciation of the good performed by the members of the Liverpool police force in connection with aliens and suspected persons, and mentioned as having rendered very useful service, Superintendent DUCKWORTH, Chief Inspector Herbert WINSTANLEY, Inspectors James M'COY and William HUGHES, Sergeants, John Thomas KINLEY, Joseph William STOREY and Alfred BURROWS, and Constable Harold BUTCHER.
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Liverpool Echo,11 June 1918
Empire honours
Superintendent Robert Duckworth, connected with the Liverpool police over thirty-eight years, and who has already received the King's Medal. He has done much successful police war work.
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Hull Daily Mail, 30 March 1921
Constable sent to gaol
Exemplary sentence for theft
A young constable in the Liverpool City Police Force, Archibald Thompson JONES, was on Tuesday sentenced to 6 months imprisonment by the Liverpool Stipendiary Magistrate for stealing a number of small articles and for being in possession of a miscellaneous collection of others.
JONES was enlisted into the force at the time of the Liverpool police strike, in August, 1917. was a member of the police fire brigade Garston, and the articles stolen him was a bicycle lamp belonging to a comrade in the brigade, the theft taking place during the progress a fire to which the brigade were summoned. Other articles stolen belonged to the White Star Line in whose service the prisoner was before joining the police.
JONES made a strong appeal to the magistrate to deal with the case by way of a fine, but the request was refused, the magistrate remarking that the case was a disgraceful one, and that the prisoner had betrayed the trust which was reposed to him as a member of the force.
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Hull Daily Mail, 11 March 1924
Chief Inspector Richard HOLBROOK, who is retiring from the Liverpool City Police Force aged 58, has a record of 36 yrs service without ever having been absent a day through illness
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Nottingham Evening Post, March 1st 1933
A descendant of Robert PEEL
To be head of Essex Police Force
Essex Standing Joint Committee at a meeting at Chelmsford today appointed Captain Francis Richard Jonathan PEEL, M.C, Chief Constable of Bath, to be Chief Constable of Essex, in succession of the late Captain J. A. UNETT, D.S.O.
Captain PEEL, who is a descendant of Sir Robert PEEL, has been Chief Constable of Bath since April 1931, he was formerly with the Liverpool City Police from October 1920 to March 1931.
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Aberdeen Journal 03 July 1934
Aberdeenshires oldest lady
Obituary. Mrs Angus, Dies Near Tarves in 105th Year.
Aberdeenshire's oldest inhabitant, Mrs Margaret Inkson or Angus, widow of the late Forbes Angus, died yesterday at Backhill of Courtstone, Tarves, in her 105th year. Backhills Croft is about three miles from Tarves and Mrs Angus had lived there for over 70 years. The old lady was quite hale and hearty up until last week when she took a shock. She was able to be up every day and was always ready for her meals. She had remarkably good eyesight and could read without glasses.
Mrs Angus recalled the days when domestic servants had to get up at 4am, and sometimes she had to drive cattle for many miles to the market. Her recipe for longevity was plenty of hard work, an abundance of milk, porridge oatmeal, and soup and no fancy food.
She had three sons, the last surviving of whom retired four years ago, as superintendent in the Liverpool City Police, he is over seventy. She has 20 grandchildren, 36 great-grandchildren and 8 great-great-grandchildren.
She was looked after by her grand-daughter Mrs Elsie Brown and her great-granddaughter, Miss Margaret Brown.
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Dundee Courier, 8 August 1935
The Perfect Policeman A Liverpool police constable, W. Nicholson, defined the ideal policeman at a round table luncheon yesterday. His ideal was summed up in the five points, Courtesy. Conscientiousness. Cautiousness. Contentment. Comradeship.
It was a glorious life being a policeman he said, because you were living for yourself and the whole community. I place courtesy first said P. C. Nicholson, It costs nothing, goes a long way, and is essential to the job of a policeman
Since 1919 police service had undergone a great change. The policeman had been raised from the status of a working man to that of a profession. A policeman must be conscientious and must not shift the blame to another for something he had done. He must strive to see the other fellows point of view. The ideal policeman must be content. Discontent might lead to discourteousness.
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Dec 28th 1935
Constable injured by car
Retires from force
Constable Alfred COULDRY, of Birkenhead Police Force, was yesterday presented with a gold watch and cheque on his retirement from the force. He was knocked down while on point duty in September 1933, was severely injured and suffers from partial paralysis. Making the presentation Captain A. C.DAWSON, Chief-constable said, "I feel most indignant about the whole thing. I only hope if the man reads these remarks he will realise he has been responsible for depriving the force of a good man. A most contemptible type of road hog"
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Evening Telegraph 14 April 1938
2967 pounds Damages against policeman
A Liverpool police officer was the unsuccessful defendant in a case at Liverpool Assizes yesterday in which Mrs Agnes Emily LANCASHIRE of Rosslyn St, Liverpool was awarded 2967 pounds [of which 1230 pounds was apportioned between four children] for the death of her husband George Dutton LANCASHIRE, who was fatally injured by a car driven by the policeman.
In evidence the defendant Thomas Arthur BENN of St Marys Rd, Garston, said he was dazzled by the lights of an oncoming vehicle.
Hull Daily Mail 14 November 1938
Alleged Pool fraud plot
John Henry BARDSLEY former Liverpool police officer and Hannah H. BROWN today were committed for trial at Manchester Assizes on a charge of attempting to obtain 28,993 pounds in alleged pool fraud plot.
LIVERPOOL POLICE INSPECTION. 1939
Annual inspection of the Liverpool Police was held in Sefton Park.
Evening Post, Aug 22nd, 1952
PC saves widow from fire
Forces his way through the flames
Overcome by heat and smoke Mrs Elizabeth CONNOLLY a 78 years old widow was carried from her blazing tenement home in Silvester St, Liverpool, by a policeman today.
Then Constable George BIRCH, aged 28, rushed back into the building and roused families living above the blazing apartment. More than a dozen people including children left their homes. Mrs CONNOLLY is in hospital with shock.
The fire started in the kitchen when Mrs CONNOLLY unable to sleep had been making herself a cup of tea. She was apparently overcome as she tried to escape and was found unconscious by PC. BIRCH who was cycling home.
He saw a glow in the window of the ground floor flat and forced his way in.
Four years ago PC BIRCH was awarded the parchment of the Liverpool Shipwreck and Humane Society for discovering and putting out a fire in Liverpool.
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Liverpool Echo, June 21st, 1957
Two retiring
Long-service Liverpool Detectives
Two members of Liverpool COD, Detective Sergeant William G. PENNINGTON, 31 years police service and Detective Constable Frederick W. McCABE, 37 years, police service and longest serving Liverpool Detective is retiring this weekend.
Sergeant PENNINGTON, a native of St Helens where his mother still lives at 117 Albion St has had 17 awards and commendations. He received one of his merit badges for successfully solving a fraud case involving thousands of pounds, the other was presented after the May blitz on the City in 1941, when he tackled single handed violent thieves he found looting.
He is going to live at Bossall Beach, Thornton Cleveleys near Blackpool.
Detective McCABE who lives at 434 East Prescot Rd, and who has been attached to the CID, Prescot St, Division since 1934, has had 33 awards and commendations.
One of the merit badges was received working along with Assistant Chief Constable Herbert R. BALMER, then detective chief inspector in arresting three men who made a murderous on a shopkeeper in London Rd on 1918.