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Last Updated on Saturday, 09 March 2024 20:33

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NEW PHOTO ALBUM

Due to technical issues, it has not been possible to post photos onto the Photo Album section and despite numerous attempts to rectify the problem, the problem has not been fixed.

Therefore, the DPP NARPO website now has two Photo Albums.

To access photos posted on the website from October 2021 onwards go to the Menu Bar and click on NEW PHOTO ALBUM.

To access photos posted on the website pre October 2021, go to the Menu Bar and click on OLD PHOTO ALBUM.

 

DPP NARPO NEWSLETTER

The autumn / winter issue of the newsletter can be found by going to the Members Only section of the website.

You can read the newsletter as a PDF document or as a magazine by clicking on the links.

For those without an email address, a paper copy of the newsletter will be posted to them from NARPO HQ at Wakefield.

 

FOND FAREWELL TO MILFORD HAVEN POLICE STATION

At the end of September 2023 a celebration was held to commemorate the closure of Milford Haven Police Station. During the afternoon, many NARPO members and officers, support staff and volunteers (pictured below) enjoyed reminiscing about their time at Charlie Mike.

In August it was announced that the Police Station situated in Charles Street would be sold with staff relocating to offices at Cedar Court, Milford Haven.The building first opened for business in 1962 as part of the Pembrokeshire Police building programme.

For many years the first floor of the building provided living accommodation and was first occupied by Inspector John Savage and his family. His daughter Pam Round (nee Savage) attended the reunion and mentioned that her bedroom was above the main entrance and quite often she could not get to sleep because of the noise! The flat was later occupied by Inspector John Edwards and family, also Bill Williams and family.

The last word goes to NARPO member Peter Evans who was a Beat Officer at Charlie Mike for the majority of his service, “It was a busy station but a pleasure to work there as it was a very friendly ‘nick’. As well as being work colleagues, we were all good friends. I loved working there and always looked forward to going to work."

 

 

ST. DAVID’S DAY CELEBRATION

The first day of March is St David’s Day, the Patron Saint of Wales and is one of the most important dates in the Welsh calendar. This year, 50 members of Dyfed-Powys NARPO celebrated the special day at a coffee morning in Haverfordwest with plenty of red shirts and daffodils on display.

During the morning, Brian Murphy (volunteer co-ordinator), gave a presentation about the work of Police Care UK. He explained that the charity provides support for those who suffer physical and psychological harm because of their policing role.

The proceeds of the raffle were donated to Police Care UK which is funded solely by donations and fundraising.

There was lots of reminiscing and laughter during the hugely enjoyable event which ended with attendees singing a rousing rendition of Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau - the Welsh national anthem.

 

C DIVISION RUGBY TEAM

Many thanks to Andy Edwards (Rtd. PC780) for this photo of the C (Pembrokeshire) Division rugby team taken in the late 70s / early 80s.

Standing (L to R): Mike Lewis, Bob Phillips, Nigel Scourfield, Bob John John Edwards, Andy Edwards. Front row: Phil (Coch) Thomas, Mike George, Berian Williams, Ted Nicholas, Robert Watts, John Griffiths, Robert Thomas.

 

C DIVISION SEVENS SQUAD

Another photo from the Andy Edwards collection. The Sevens tournament was an annual event in the 80s and this photo features the C (Pembrokeshire) Division squad. (Exact year not known).

Rear (L to R): Martin Lewis, Mike Calas, Nigel Scourfield, John Kilcoyne, Andy Edwards, Nigel Jones. Front: Jeremy Davies, Bill Horne Ken Rees, Bob Bailleaux.

 

THE GREAT CARMARTHEN FLOOD OF 1987

In October 1987 the late Princess Diana and Prince Charles (now King Charles) visited families affected by flood damage in Carmarthen and also met members of the emergency services. The photo shows the royal couple with Andy Edwards third from the left.

The couple were shown around the parts of Carmarthen worst affected by the flooding, including Southern Terrace in Pensarn, where 14 people had to be rescued from the soaked ruins of their homes. The sight of an elderly woman being lifted onto a fireman's back and carried to safety is one that travelled the country via people's television sets.

The Prince of Wales commented during the visit that there was a “marvellous community spirit with everyone helping each other.”

 

JUDGES ESCORT IN CARMARTHEN IN THE 50S

The officer arrowed is John Edwards, Andy’s father. The Inspector leading the parade and John Edwards are wearing Carmarthenshire Constabulary tunics. The officers escorting HM Judge including the Mace Bearer are Carmarthen Borough Police officers.

Apparently, the judge was driven to the Old Oak and following a church service held at St. Peter’s Church the Judges Escort then made its way to the Assize Court at The Guildhall.

Note: John Edwards retired as C/Superintendent D (Powys) Division, his four sons followed in his footsteps with all four joining the Police.

 

 

NORTH POWYS AFTERNOON TEA

On Friday 23rd February, 34 members of DPP NARPO enjoyed another successful get together. This time it was afternoon tea at Themes Restaurant at Coleg Powys, Newtown.

An excellent selection of cakes was provided by the catering students with lots of cholesterol consumed by everyone, the excuse being that it was their weekly treat!

It was great for everyone to reminisce and enjoy each other’s company, many thanks to Gloria Hughes for organising an excellent event.

Below are two batches of photos taken during the afternoon.

Key to Numbered Photos:

1.    John Williams, Derek Bloomfield and Gill Hopkins  2.    Kevin Scourfield with Joyce and Peter Davies

3.    Owen Durbridge (head in hands) with Janet Durbridge and Bill Rowbottom  4.    John and Myra Williams

5.    Keith Blanchard and Roger Davies 6.    Bob Evans and Dave Crees 

7.    Grace Blanchard with raffle prize    8.    Trudy Randle, Meudwen Rowbottom and Brian Randle

 

 

ALPHA ALPA IN THE 80S

Many thanks to David Morgan (Rtd. PC547) for these photos taken when he was a PC stationed at Ammanford.

A pre shift briefing at Ammanford – all looking very smart!

From L to R: Inspector Moelwyn Morgan, PCs Derrick Davies, David Rees, David Morgan, Glyn Jones with Mike Foster (Collator).

Ammanford squad photo,

Standing (L to R): Steve Brown, Roger Bowen (transferred to South Wales), Howard Davies, David Morgan, Front: Vic James, PS Arthur Jones (Later Gwent ACC), Roy Prydderch.

 

NORTH POWYS CHRISTMAS LUNCH

On Tuesday 28th November, North Powys members enjoyed an excellent lunch at Lakeside Golf Club, Garthmyl. The food and company was of very high quality and the banter was even better.

Unfortunately some regular attendees were unable to make it because of ill health. However it was pleasing to see some ‘younger oldies’ for the first time. We hope they enjoyed the function and are able to support future events.

A couple of donated gifts were raffled, enabling a donation of £70:00 to Pancreatic Cancer UK.

Well done to Derek & Edwina Bloomfield for organising the lunch.

 

MID WALES CONSTABULARY ASSOCIATION LUNCH 2023

The annual general meeting of the Mid-Wales Constabulary Association was held at the Greyhound Hotel, Builth Wells on Friday 13th October. Following the meeting members and spouses enjoyed an excellent lunch and reminiscing about their time in the force. The majority of attendees being members of DPP NARPO including 92 year old Doug Jones of Brecon.

Well done to Barry Hicks (Secretary / Treasurer) for organising the hugely enjoyable event.

 

Guide to photos (ALL Left to Right):

1) Peter and Joyce Davies, John Williams, Ian Kinsey, Roy Harris, Peter Taylor, Phil Hopkins, Derek Bloomfield (partial), Gill Hopkins, Jim Honeybill, Les & Judith Haines, Myra Williams.

2) Phil Hopkins, Derek Bloomfield, Gill Hopkins, Edwina Bloomfield, Gill Williams, Gloria Hughes, Doug Jones, Bob Evans, Dave Crees.

3) Phil Hopkins, Derek Bloomfield, Gill Hopkins, Edwina Bloomfield, Gill Williams, Gloria Hughes, Doug Jones, Bob Evans.

4) Alan & Jacqui Jones, Brian (Dinger) Bell, Alan Bell, Fiona Pryce. Pat & Clive Cowey, Gloria Hughes, Doug Jones, Bob Evans, Dave Crees, Mike Kelly, John  Roderick, Alan Harding, Linda & Chris Brennan. Standing: Barry Hicks (Organiser)

 

FIREARMS TRAINING

The below photo supplied by Mr John Cerith Davies was taken during a Firearms Training course held at Brecon in the late 1970s / early 80s. While most of the officers have been named, hopefully someone can filll in the gaps.

1  Mike Richards      2  Lyn Clark  3  ?   4   ?  5 Ted Pugh   6  ?   7 Robin Wilson   8 Geoff Roberts  9 Bob Campbell  10 Phil Edwards     11 ?           12  John Cerith Davies   13  Keith Williams   14 Phil Richards   15 Ieuan Evans    16   ?   17    ?    18 John Richards    19 Tony James    20 David Hewitt

 

NORTH POWYS CHRISTMAS LUNCH
The North Powys retired police officers’ Christmas lunch was held at the Lakeside, Garthmyl on Tuesday 29th November with twenty members enjoying  an excellent meal.

Well done to Derek Bloomfield for organising the event and to Peter Davies for the photos.

Photo 1 (Clockwise): Lynda and Chris Brennan, Keith & Grace Blanchard, John & Myra Williams, Joyce & Peter Davies and David Crees. 

          Photo 2: Bill and Meudwen Rowbottom, Roger & Jan Eagles, Gill Hopkins, Edwina & Derek Bloomfield, Phil Hopkins, Gary Jones, Vi & Lyn Clark

Peter Davies & Chris Brennan reminiscing about working together at Delta November (Newtown) and probably chatted about playing football in their younger days for Mid-Wales Constabulary & D Division. (Team photo taken at Aberystwyth FC in 1968 with a young Chris and Peter in the front row).

Roger Eagles and Gary Jones entered into the Christmas spirit – no prize for the best (or worst) dressed attendee!

Derek Bloomfield & Phil Hopkins enjoying a catch up – they’re not accountable for all the empty glasses!

 

TRIBUTE TO ALAN NURTON

The below photo supplied by Mrs Sheila Nurton widow of the late DC Alan Nurton, has been forwarded by NARPO member Mr John Cerith Davies. The photo was taken in December 1979 when HRH Prince Charles visited RAF Brawdy (Pembrokeshire) in his capacity as the station's Honorary Commodore.

With HRH Prince Charles are (Left to Right): DC JC Davies (DC327), DC Alan Nurton (DC2) and Prince Charles’ Personal Protection Officer

Mr Davies has written the following tribute to Alan:

It was during my period at Llanelli CID that I got to know Alan Nurton and over the years until he passed away, we were great friends. What a character! It is a fact that whenever Prince Charles visited our force area,  Alan would invariably be part of the protection team. Charles would ALWAYS acknowledge his presence much to the annoyance of one or two of our most senior officers.
On one of his visits Charles knowing Alans' rank, with tongue in cheek joked, promised him that when he would ascend to the throne, he would abolish the Sergeants Exam!
Alan's main interest outside work was as Chairman of the Llanelli Male Voice Choir. I was also a member and for many years I sat on the committee with him. He was totally committed to promoting the reputation of the choir and spent huge amount of his time (and some job time) doing it.
Prior to one the choirs' tours, Alan suggested we write to Prince Charles' office giving details of our tour with a request for a letter of good wishes from him. This was met by sigh and a comment of "in your dreams". The request was sent and sure enough, within a short period of time back came the response via Alan personally signed by Charles.  Brilliant.
NOTE: The Autumn / Winter issue of the DPP NARPO newsletter contains an article about our new Monarch’s stay at Aberystwyth in 1969 and the team tasked with safeguarding him during his stay.

Alan Nurton was a member of that team.

 

MID WALES CONSTABULARY ASSOCIATION LUNCH 2022

For the first time since the association was founded in the early 80’s, spouses of members were invited along to the lunch at the Greyhound Hotel, Builth Wells on Friday 14th October. The majority of attendees are members of DPP NARPO including 96 year old Pat Cochrane of Newtown and 91 year old Doug Jones of Brecon.

Photos taken during the event can be found by clicking on: MWCA LUNCH

 

PRO ACTIVE TEAM AND C2

The below photo provided by Clive Jones was taken circa 2000 at Llanelli Police Station and features members of the Eastern Pro-Active team and members of C2.

Rear (L to R): John Williams, Rhod Troake, Paul Williams, Clive Jones, Anthony Jones, Neil East, Jeff Davies, Shane Williams, Jamie Evans.

Front: Sharon Davies, Paul Myles, Steve Mears, Steve Wilkins, Wayne Morgan, John Davies.

 

ROYAL VISIT TO WELSHPOOL

On Thursday 23rd May 1974, HRH Prince Charles visited Welshpool to mark the re-opening of the Welshpool Town Lock on the Montgomeryshire Canal after restoration.

The late Mrs Betty Lloyd, (mother & mother in law of Pat and Clive Cowey) was among the large number of spectators. Mrs Lloyd took several photographs during the visit and Clive recently came across the above batch of photos showing officers on duty.

Identified are: 1: HRH Prince Charles escorted into Welshpool Town Hall by Mr JR Jones (Chief Constable). 2: WPC Sue King 3: PS Glyn Evans facing camera 4: PC Harry Gosling 5:TW Cliff Lloyd (husband of Mrs Betty Lloyd) 6:The imposing figure of PC Peter Guise outside Welshpool Town Hall.

Sadly, the majority of the officers named are no longer with us.

 

NO. 8 DPTC BRIDGEND (1965)

Many thanks to Nigel Williams of Carmarthen for the course photograph taken during his initial training course at Bridgend in 1965.

No.1 is Barrie Davies who joined Pembrokeshire Police, No.2 is Nigel Williams who joined Carmarthenshire & Cardiganshire Constabulary. Among the training staff is the late Rene Soar (3) who joined Pembrokeshire Police and retired from Dyfed-Powys Police as Superintendent.

 

THREE OF A KIND

Many thanks to Peter Davies (Rtd. DC590) of Newtown for the below photographs. The photo on the left features three generations of Scenes of Crime Officers who were all based at Newtown.

In the centre of the photo is Pat Cochrane who joined the Mid-Wales Constabulary and was SOCO at Newtown up until his retirement from Dyfed-Powys Police in 1982. He was followed by Peter Davies (left) who retired from DPP in 1994 and on the right is Mike Denyard who inherited the post from Peter.

The photograph was taken in October 2021 when Pat celebrated his 95th birthday, all three are members of DPP NARPO and reside in Newtown.

The photo on the right was taken at Pat’s retirement party and shows him handing over the office keys to Peter.  

 

CARDIGANSHIRE CONSTABULARY OFFICER

The below photograph has been received from Mr. Ross Mather (Rtd. SWP) and features a Cardiganshire Constable. Unfortunately, nothing is known about PC 23 but the photograph was probably taken at the turn of the 19th/20th century. Note the wonderful detail on the cap badge.

As can be seen, the photographer was Arthur Squibbs and according to the National Library of Wales website, Arthur Squibbs operated in New Quay and Cardigan from 1901 onwards. He took many photographs of people going about their daily lives, including workmen.

 

 

THE EDWARDS FIVE

This photograph appeared in the Police Review in 1976 when Dyfed-Powys Police claimed the unique distinction of having five serving members from the same family.

Pictured are the late Mr. John Edwards (Rtd. C/Supt) with (left to right) his sons Andrew, Mark, Phillip and Clive who later transferred to South Wales Police.

(Keeping up the family tradition, Mark’s son David is a DPP Sergeant)!

 

DOC MARTENS BOOTS

Many will remember spending hours ‘bulling’ their Doc Marten boots at Bridgend / Cwmbran during initial training, leaving the leather highly reflective, similar to a patent leather finish. 

The advert on the left appeared in the Police Review in 1976 when a pair of Docs cost £9:45. Today, similar boots as shown on the right, sell for approximately £140.

 

BEFORE AND AFTER

Mr Peter Jones (Rtd. DS109) of Freshwater East recently came across a truncheon which belonged to his late father Mr. JR Jones (Chief Constable). The truncheon was sent to Mr Ross Mather a retired South Wales officer who collects Police memorabilia.

Painted on the truncheon is a scrolled VR (Victoria Regina) as well as the number 8. Experience tells Ross that the shape is typically that of the Georgian period, so it is possibly early Victorian.

The photo on the right is the same truncheon after restoration and cleaning. Measuring 19 inches, it originated in Carmarthenshire and could have been carried by a Special Constable during the period of civil disturbances such as the Rebecca Riots / Chartist Riots. It could also have been one which was issued to a Parish Constable of the time.

If you are interested in viewing more police memorabilia, visit the Virtual Museum of Police in Wales Facebook page.

 

CARMARTHENSHIRE CONSTABULARY HEAGEAR

As can be seen from the photographs supplied by Mrs Helen Fletcher (below), various headgear was worn by Carmarthenshire Constabulary officers. Many thanks to Ross Mather for supplying information about the changes over the years.

The small round helmet plate is the type worn prior to 1910 and afterwards the larger more ornate design with dragon centre was introduced.The cap was worn in the 1930's.

 

THE WILLIAM ARTHUR LLEWELLYN JONES (WALJ) COLLECTION (UPDATED)
Many thanks to Mrs Helen Fletcher of the Isle of Wight for sending a large batch of interesting photos to Dyfed-Powys NARPO relating to the career of her late grandfather - William Arthur Llewellyn Jones (below).

Helen has provided the following background information:

My Dad recently handed me all of his father's photos in the hope that I might identify and preserve any that were of significance. Amongst the photos there are many group and individual photos of the Carmarthenshire Constabulary from 1913 to the 1950s.

My Grandad was William Arthur Llewellyn Jones known as William or Will. He was born in Llangadock, Carmarthenshire in 1895 and died in Penarth 1964.

1913 - joined the Carmarthenshire Constabulary at the age of 18. He was stationed at Penygroes, Llandybie. 

1915 - he and some of his colleagues joined the Welsh Guards and he fought on the Western Front until he returned home early 1919.

1922 - appointed Sergeant at Llandeilo Police Station.

1936 - promoted to Inspector at Llanelly Dock.

1941 - appointed Inspector in change at Ammanford.

It was shortly after this that my dad was born in 1942 and my dad recalls living at the police station until my Grandad retired in 1947. 

Thereafter my Grandad moved to Penarth and worked in security at Lloyds Bank in Cardiff for 14 years until his death in 1964.

Scroll down to view the photos.

 

WINGS FOR VICTORY WEEK 1943

The below photograph was taken during Wings for Victory week as a contingent of Carmarthenshire Constabulary officers led by Inspector William Jones march though Ammanford town centre.

Wings for Victory Week was a national fund-raising event held from 1st to 8th May 1943, each county in Britain was set a target for the amount of money it should raise.The funds were used to sponsor the purchase of bomber and fighter aircraft.

Photo from the WAL Jones collection

 

THE BATTLE OF AMMANFORD

The industrial history of Wales is studded with strikes, lock outs and riots but one series of violent altercations between striking miners and the forces of law and order is the Ammanford anthracite strike of 1925.

PS William Jones on extreme left at Saron Colliery during the strike - names of other officers not known

The strike began on 13 July 1925. For a period of 10 days Ammanford was a virtual battleground as the police and miners struggled to gain control of the streets.Skirmishes between the miners and the police were commonplace. Worst of all, however, was what has been called The Battle of Ammanford which began when 200 policemen - billeted in the old brewery at nearby Gwaun Cae Gurwen - were ambushed and attacked by miners on the Pontamman Bridge. The police were on their way to deal with a picket at No 2 pit in Ammanford and walked, totally unsuspecting, into the trap.

The 'battle' lasted from 10.30pm at night until 3am in the morning before the miners were pushed back and police at last managed to gain control of the area. And so, it went on, skirmish following skirmish throughout the early summer months. Finally, the mine owners gave in and agreed to recognise the seniority rule. Miners returned to work on 2 August.

To find out more click on : https://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/wales/entries/3611ec76-e33b-30a6-8865-ddc9e6423d21

Photo from the WAL Jones collection

 

CARMARTHENSHIRE CONSTABULARY OFFICERS EARLY 20TH CENTURY

The below collage of Carmarthenshire Constabulary comprises of officers serving during the early part of the 20th century. The pen pictures supplied by Mrs Helen Fletcher, granddaughter of WAL (William) Jones.

The following officers are shown in the collage:

Photo 1: The first photo shows a batch of new recruits: William Arthur Llewellyn Jones (PC 102) stood left, Joe Higgins (PC 103) sat left, William Prothero (PC 104) sat right. The other two constables are not known (NK).

Photo 2: PS Joe Higgins, later in his Police career - by 1939 he was an Inspector in Ammanford and it is believed he became a Superintendent.

3 PC Hughes (48) 4 PS Richards 5 PC D Phillips (57) 6 PC Glynne Jones (30) 7 PC Bassett (109) 8 PC K Madge 9 AT Smith (55) 10 PC Higgins (103) & N/K 11 PC John (114) 12 PC Prothero (104) 13 DCC David John Jones 14 PC Land (59) 15 PC J Evans (2)

(If you recognise or are a relative of any of the officers, please let me know).

 

JUDGES ESCORT DUTY AT CARMARTHEN

The below photo from the WAL Jones collection was taken outside the front entrance of Carmarthen Guildhall on 20th January 1927 and features officers deployed on Judges escort duty at the Carmarthenshire Winter Assizes.

The officer on the extreme left is Sergeant William Jones, the names of the other officers are not known.

The imposing building is no longer used for court hearings. Several important trials took place in the courtroom. Two of the leaders of the Rebecca Riots,  were convicted in the courtroom in December 1843 and sentenced to be transported to Australia. The trial of the solicitor, Harold Greenwood, for the murder of his wifetook place at the Guildhall in November 1920.

 

UNSOLVED MURDER OF CAROL ANN STEPHENS
Six year old Carol Ann Stephens  disappeared from her home in Cathays, Cardiff shortly after going out on an errand and was found two weeks later on 21 April 1959 in the ravine near Horeb near Llanelli, Carmarthen.

Chief Inspector Glyn Jones of the Carmarthenshire Constabulary with two Scotland Yard detectives confer near where the body was found.

The ravine that Carol Stephens was found in was 20 feet deep and near to Five Roads in Horeb, five miles north of Llanelly. It was thought that she had been dead for at least a week by the time she was found. The ravine had a small stream in it and her body had been concealed by overhanging leaves and branches. Despite a huge manhunt and the help of the Metropolitan Police, the six-year-old's killer was never caught.

Photo from the WAL Jones collection

 

POLICE MOBILE COLUMN
The following has been received from Bill Smith (Rtd. PS 627) of Newtown:

Back in the late 60's, the thirteen Welsh forces were an active part of the UK Civil Defence system. We had regular training in the use of Geiger counters (an electronic instrument used for detecting and measuring radiation), the Russian Stasi organisation and the four minute warning (see below).

The Mobile Column took part in regular training exercises and there was never a shortage of volunteers as the exercises were looked upon as a jolly!

Officers taking part in a two week Civil Defence exercise at Sennybridge Army camp in 1964.

There is a black and white clip on YouTube showing a column training exercise - https://youtu.be/J2m8ozxwHKs (NO sound) which members may find interesting.

Senior Welsh police officers of a Mobile Column (names not known).

The four-minute warning was a public alert system conceived by the British Government during the Cold War and operated between 1953 and 1992. The name derived from the approximate length of time from the point at which a Soviet nuclear missile attack against the United Kingdom could be confirmed and the impact of those missiles on their targets. The population was to be notified by means of air raid sirens, television and radio, and urged to seek cover immediately. In practice, the warning would have been more likely three minutes or less

Note: During the cold war, Mobile Columns were formed so that in time of a nuclear attack, these columns would be withdrawn to safe locations ready to go and police the devastated areas. Mobile Columns were also used to provide mutual aid to forces requiring assistance e.g. the Aberfan disaster in October 1966.

No one had adequately explained how the police officers on these convoys of vehicles were to survive in the face of highly radioactive fall-out, protected only by the thickness of the vehicle bodywork. It was not surprising that the Labour Government sought to abolish the Mobile Column system and they were disbanded in 1968 .

Photos courtesy of Ross Mather (Virtual Museum of Police in Wales).

 

WELL DONE JAC!

Members may be interested to know that a newcomer to the Wales squad has connections with Dyfed-Powys Police. 21 year old Jac Morgan is the grandson of the late Elfed Thomas (Rtd. Supt) and the nephew of Emyr Thomas (PC699), a Firearms Officer based at Cross Hands.

JAC has spoken on his pride at being selected for the 2022 Guinness Six Nations campaign. The Ospreys back rower, previously captained the Wales Under-20s side in their Six Nations tournament."I spent 10 years playing for Cwmtwch in the juniors, and went through Amman Valley Comp, and then on to the Scarlets and now the Ospreys. I'm just very thankful for everyone who has helped me and supported me through everything, especially my family and close friends."

Update: Jac made his debut for Wales against Scotland - Wales won 20 - 17.

 

HAPPY 102ND BIRTHDAY

Congratulations from DPP NARPO to Mrs Vreni Simpson (pictured) of Holmfirth, near Huddersfield who recently celebrated her 102nd birthday and is possibly our oldest member.

Vreni is the widow of the late Sergeant Jack Simpson who transferred from the Metropolitan Police to the Mid-Wales Constabulary in 1949 – he was allocated the collar number 46 and his first station was Welshpool.

Many thanks to Mrs Anita Craddock (daughter) for supplying the photo.

 

A LENGTHY PERIOD OF DEVOTED SERVICE

Many thanks to Mr. Huw Thomas of Kilgetty for the below photographs featuring his grandfather, Anthony Thomas, who joined Pembrokeshire Police as PC64 in November 1899 and retired as Deputy Chief Constable in June 1941.

During his service Mr. Anthony Thomas served at Pembroke Dock, Tenby, Saundersfoot and Letterston and upon his retirement the following words of appreciation were written:

He is an example of application and devotion to duty which many a young man might do well to follow. He has worthily upheld the dignity and honour of the force and takes with him the good wishes of all whom he has come into contact with during his service.

 

From left to right: PC Thomas No 64, PS Thomas 64 & Deputy Chief Constable Anthony Thomas taken shortly prior to his retirement.

July 1913: PC Thomas taking James Connor into custody for arson in parish of Carew. St John's Church, Pembroke Dock in the background.

June 1934: Pembroke Dock Division pictured in the grounds of Albion Square School. Mr. A Thomas (DCC) sat 3rd from right

January 1935: Tenby Races – Flanked by PS Griffiths and PS Bodman

Tenby racecourse (at one time near the site of New Hedges roundabout), grew into what was to become the hub of Welsh racing and the centre of the Welsh National Hunt social racing calendar. Every January, the top jockeys, horses and trainers in the United Kingdom and Ireland visited Tenby to compete at the highest level of National Hunt racing.

1937: Tank sold for scrap – Mr. Thomas with local dignitaries.

At the end of WW1, a British tank was placed at the entrance to the Memorial Park, Pembroke Dock as a memorial to the many local men that made the ultimate sacrifice during the Great War. In 1937 the tank was sold for scrap to a local scrap dealer who purchased it for £35!

 

MILFORD HAVEN POLICE DANCE 1971

The below photo received from Mr Roger Inward (Rtd. PS SWP) appeared in the West Wales Guardian in March 1971. The photo was taken at the annual Police dance held at the Petroleum Club, Milford Haven.

Pictured are Bill Lennon, Roger Thomas, Ieuan Owen, Keith Allen, Sue Brien, David Evans, Derek Hollywell, Ernie Jones, Alan Coles, Jack Edwards (see below), Dennis Hughes, Richard Cowley, Eira McKay, Trevor Millichip, Roger Inward, Dai Phillips, Les Smith, Dai Morgan, Patrick Loam.

Mr Jack Edwards (centre of photo) was C/Inspector at Milford at the time, shortly afterwards he left for pastures new in Ammanford. He retired as C/Supt. D Division and his four sons, Clive, Mark, Andrew and Phillip all joined ‘the job’.

Roger Inward served in Dyfed-Powys for just over two years before transferring to South Wales Police. Sadly, a number of those pictured are no longer with us.

 

A DIVISION RUGBY TEAM 1979 -1980.

The below photograph received from Terry Stokes features the A Division Rugby team from around 1979 / 1980. The first captain was Geoff Roberts who previously played for The Scarlets (Llanelli RFC).

The team played almost every week against works team like Fire Service, Collieries and universities as well as local rugby clubs usually under their floodlights. We also played in the Towy Valley cup but never competed in a league.

Back row  (L to R): Gwilym Evans, John Davies, Mike Donovan, Howard Davies, Delme Phillips, Dylan Evans, Dillwyn Augustus, Alan Lewis, Meurig Evans

Front: Mike Davies, Alwyn Price, Alun Williams, Terry Stokes, Geoff Roberts, Norman Welch, Roger Anthony, Mark Williams

 

FALKLANDS WAR AND RUGBY LED TO 40 YEAR FRIENDSHIP

Many members, especially those who served in A & C Divisions, will remember Irfon Higgins (Rtd. PC). Prior to joining Dyfed-Powys Police in 1985, Irfon served in the Royal Marines.

Irfon (front, extreme left) in his DPP days at Haverfordwest

During his service in the Royal Marines, in 1982 Irfon was deployed to the Falkland Islands following the invasion by Argentina.

On the SS Canberra in the heat of the Falklands War, Irfon was tasked with guarding 4,500 prisoners of war and through a mutual love of rugby, became firm friends with Giorgio Podesta who acted as an interpreter.

Irfon (right) with Giorgio

The friendship still exists today and features in a book written about the 72 day conflict.

To read more about the unusual bond, click on: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-59838958

 

PHOTO ALBUM INDEX 2021

Many thanks to members who have supplied photos during the year. A list of the photos can be found by clicking on INDEX.

 

VASCAR INSTRUCTION IN THE 80'S

The following has been received from Mr Emyr Daniel (Rtd. PS197):

The below photo was taken from a cutting in the Western Mail when the late John Morris was an Inspector in charge of 'A' Division Traffic at Llanelli.

Emyr is unable to recognise the officer looking over his shoulder - (according to Gwyndaf Prosser, possibly PS Derrick Davies).

The below photo was received from Mr Huw Jones and shows him explaining the VASCAR device to Mr Chris Jones JP, Chair of the Tenby Magistrates.

Note: VASCAR Units were first installed in DPP patrol cars during the early 80’s. A VASCAR unit uses a stopwatch and a simple computer. An operator records the moments that a vehicle passes two fixed objects (such as a white circle or square painted on the road) that are a known distance apart. The vehicle's average speed is then calculated by dividing the distance between the points by the time taken to travel between them.

 

NORTH POWYS CHRISTMAS LUNCH
After missing last year due to Covid restrictions, it was good to resume the North Powys retired police officers’ Christmas lunch at the Lakeside, Garthmyl on Tuesday 30th November.

Many thanks to Derek Bloomfield for organising this year’s event.

1. Kevin Scourfield, Paul Herdman, Bill Rowbottom    2. Gloria Hughes, Edwina and Derek Bloomfield   3. Gary Jones, Roger Eagles, Myra Williams   4. Bill Smith and Keith Blanchard.   5. Brian Randle, John Williams, Jan Eagles   6. Bob Evans, Dave Crees   7.Teresa Jones and Grace Blanchard.   8. Phil and Gill Hopkins   9. (Partial of Trudy Randle), Meudwen Rowbottom, Vi and Lyn Clark

Derek received the following email prior to the lunch from former Chief Constable Mr. Ray White:

Dear Derek,

Although I now live in Queensland, Australia, I try to keep in touch and have managed to visit Wales about every two years prior to Covid 19. It is now 15 years since we emigrated and as you probably know just over two years since our sad loss of Trish from a sudden heart attack.

When Covid hit, I had booked up another trip to the U.K. which, of course, had to be cancelled. If possible, I hope to make it for May/June next year. My sister, Chris lives on the Isle of Wight and I would really like to see her.

Australia has had it relatively easy during Covid compared with the U.K. Over the whole of the country, we have only had about 1000 deaths in  total and only six in Queensland.  Our government shut down all air travel from the outset and being an ‘island’, we have been able to keep tight control.

I hope that you enjoy a lovely Christmas Dinner.

Please pass on my very best wishes to all of our colleagues.

Kind regards,

Ray White

POLICE CRICKET IN 1921

In August 1921, Supt. WG Thomas of Pembrokeshire Police arranged a charity cricket match between Pembrokeshire Police and a Captain Ferguson’s Xl.

The match was held to raise funds for Pembroke Dock Nurses Home and it is envisaged that the nurses were tending to men wounded in WWl which ended less than three years previously. A letter appealing for donations was sent to residents of Pembroke Dock which can be read by clicking on APPEAL.

 

The above photograph from the collection held by the late Mr. Eric Powling was taken in 1921 and features the Pembroke Division. Supt WG Thomas is sat in the middle of the front row. Supt. Thomas joined Pembrokeshire Police as PC 9 in 1894 and retired as Deputy Chief Constable on 14th April 1924.

WELSHPOOL POLICE IN THE 1940’S

The below photos have been posted on the Memories of Welshpool Facebook page. The three smartly turned officers are stood outside the old New Street Police Station in Welshpool town centre.

It is thought that the officer in the middle is Inspector George and from a comment posted on Facebook, he was not someone to be messed about! The names of the other two officers are not known.

Judging by the uniform tunic and cap badge, it is believed the officers were members of the Montgomeryshire Constabulary. The force amalgamated with the Radnorshire & Breconshire Constabularies in 1948 to form the Mid-Wales Constabulary.