Darlington Pensioners Night 2024
Details of this event will be circulated in due course, however please note that this is scheduled to take place in November and NOT in May, as previous events.
The time will be 7.30pm and the venue, Darlington Cricket Club.
Kind regards
Ray Jones Tel: 01325 327165 Mob: 07535 261063
Seaham and Peterlee Police Reunion
Almost half way through the yearIt must be a time for a celebration. And there we have it, World Martini Day.
It will take place upstairs at The Marlborough, Charles Street, Seaham commencing at 3.00pm on Saturday, 15th June, 2024.
I’ve done some digging, so before the complaints come rolling in, it’s also Trooping of the Colour, Magna Carta Day, Beer Day Britain, National Lobster Day and believe it or not, World Juggling Day!
This is an open invitation to all who served, worked or covered Seaham and Peterlee Sub-Divisions (even Traffic!).
You’ll be pleased to know that there are no yellow lines, parking meters or Traffic Wardens operating in Marlborough.
If you have any queries, will you kindly contact Joyce Teare either by SMS to 07747814879, or email to j.teare57@gmail.com
If you can think of anyone else who may not read this then please pass on the message via word of mouth, FB, Twitter, Whats App or text.
For information, the bar is cash only, no cards or contactless.
We look forward to welcoming you on the 15th June.
Doris is survived by daughters Debbie and Fiona, grandchildren Katie, Matthew, Harriet and Emily and great grandchildren Leila and Zarina.
A funeral service is to be held at 12.15pm Friday 26th April 2024 at All Saints Church, Ravensdale Road, Darlington DL3 8DT
Family flowers only, donations in lieu to Stroke Association.
After the funeral, friends are invited to join the family at Bannatyne Hotel, Southend Avenue, Darlington DL3 7HZ
Our thoughts are with Doris’s family and friends at this sad time.
( Durham NARPO: Death of a retired Police Officer : Det. Supt. Brian Hunter Turner)
Public service pensions which have been in payment for a year will be increased by 6.7% from 8 April 2024 in line with the September-to-September increase in the Consumer Price Index (CPI). Any pension which has been in payment for less than a year will be increased by a proportionate amount depending on the number of months it has been in payment.
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/public-service-pensions-increase-2024
More information can be found here on the UK Parliament website:
Written statements – Written questions, answers and statements – UK Parliament
Joe joined Durham County Constabulary in 1956.
As a young Constable, he worked at Middleton Teesdale where he was tasked with keeping the Irish workers in check. He also policed Bishop Auckland and was able to name all of its 51 Public Houses, which he had duty to patrol.
During the early part of his service, he has hoped to get into CID, however as he owned a motorcycle and was a proficient rider, was encouraged to take a posting in the Motorcycle Section. Joe also worked the Motorway.
For many years, he was the driver to a number of Durham’s Chief Constables.
Leading up to his retirement he was involved in the setting up a Crime Prevention Office at Force Headquarters, securing a decommissioned bus, which was kitted out to become a mobile exhibition vehicle, advising on home security.
When Joe retired in 1994 after 38 years’ service and was at that time one of the longest serving officers in Durham, something that his family are very proud of.
Joe is survived by son James, daughters Judith and Jane and grandchildren Amy, Sophie, Emily, James and Hannah.
A funeral service is to be held at 11.30am Wednesday 20th March 2024 at Durham Crematorium, South Road, Durham DH1 3TQ.
Family flowers only, donations in lieu to St Cuthberts Hospice.
After the funeral, friends are invited to join the family for light refreshments at Judith and Steve’s house in Chester-le-Street.
Our thoughts are with Joe’s family and friends at this sad time.
Paul joined Durham Police as a Cadet in 1970 and was appointed as a regular Police Officer on 21 March 1973. After initial training he was posted to Stanley. His Police career within Durham saw him serving in both the North and South of the County, including Crook, Bishop Auckland, Peterlee and Seaham. He also spent a number of years with Traffic Patrols (North).
Paul met Janet, his wife, in 1971 when they were both Police Cadets in Durham; Janet also went on to join Durham Constabulary as a Police Officer and they married in 1975.
In 1984, Paul transferred to Dorset Police and was based at Dorchester and was seconded throughout most of 1984 in the Midlands, during the Miner’s Strike. However, he and his wife, Janet, deeply missed the North East and returned to the Durham Force in 1987.
Paul rose through the ranks in Durham Constabulary, spending a number of years as a Supervisory Officer, attaining the rank of Inspector. His final posting was with Professional Standards at Peterlee.
For a number of years, Paul was the Force’s Hostage Negotiator.
A number of commendations were awarded to Paul during his career; one being for rescuing a man who had fallen in the River Wear, in Durham. Another was awarded for apprehending a violent drunken man in the early hours, at a nightclub in Dorchester. This man had assaulted staff and Paul, who was on duty, alone at the time was also badly assaulted.
In 2005, Paul retired as a Police Officer to become the Office Manager in Professional Standards; he retired from Police Service altogether in 2015, after 45years service, including his cadet service.
Throughout his life, Paul was a passionate runner and athlete. He was also a supporter of Newcastle United Football Club, attending many games with his grandfather and later with his two sons.
Paul is survived by wife Janet, son Mark (D/Insp Counter Corruption), daughter Aylsa (Vetting Researcher, Professional Standards), son Peter (Force Headquarters, Real Time Intelligence), Mark’s spouse Elizabeth (DC in Safeguarding) and Aylsa’s spouse Martin (Superintendent, District Commander with Cleveland Police) and much loved grandchildren Isla (14 years), Finlay (13 years), Camila (7 years) and Anna (7 years).
A funeral service is to be held at 12.00 noon Wednesday 27th March 2024 at St. John’s Church, Nevilles Cross, Durham DH1 4DU
Family flowers only, donations in lieu to St. John’s Church, Nevilles Cross, Durham.
After the funeral, friends are invited to join the family at St. John’s Church Centre, Nevilles Cross, Durham
Our thoughts are with Paul’s family and friends at this sad time.
Audrey is the widow of retired Police Sergeant 551 Daniel (Danny) Whitfield Ledger, who retired from Durham Constabulary in October 1990 and died in January 2009.
Audrey was born in Crook, the only girl of three children. Due to her father’s work, the family moved to Sacriston and attended Durham Girls Grammar School. Sadly, at the age of 14 years, Audrey’s mother passed away, followed by her father six months later.
This resulted in the children being separated and going to live with different families,Audrey moving to Tanfield Lea where she joined the choir of the local Methodist Chapel.
Danny was a choirboy at the same Chapel and on seeing Audrey he told a friend that he was going to marry her.
Danny performed his National Service in the RAF from 1952-54, and in addition to an administrative role, he trained up to Senior Aircraftsman.
In 1955 Danny kept to his word and he and Audrey were married. In 1957 Danny joined Durham County Constabulary, leaving in 1965, when the couple and their two daughters emigrated, to pursue a life in Australia.
Between 1966-68, Danny worked for the Melbourne Harbour Trust, where, after training he became a diver and a licensed motor boatman, he also trained in Fire Fighting and Emergency Operations. Audrey worked as School Secretary at Melbourne’s Methodist Ladies College.
Audrey was somewhat homesick and in 1969 the family moved back to the North East of England, where Danny resumed service with the Durham force and was later promoted to the rank of Sergeant. His police service began at Hebburn, then Chopwell where he rode a police motorcycle, then after the family’s return from Australia, he was posted to
Bishop Auckland, where he was involved with the Divisional firearms officers. He was also an instructor at Harperley Hall for a time and sang in the Durham Constabulary Male Voice Choir for many years; he finally retired in 1990.
Upon their return to England, Audrey took up employment as a Laboratory Assistant at King James Grammar School in Bishop Auckland. However, after learning of her employment status in Melbourne, she was offered the job of School Secretary, a position she held until her retirement in 1992.
She was a very active person and was a committee member of King James Sports Centre, and for many years was on the committee of Bishop Auckland Women’s Institute.
Danny had been a NARPO member and on the committee of the Durham Branch for at least 10 years, with he and Audrey taking an active interest in NARPO. After Danny’s death, Audrey continued her membership and was elected on to the committee in 2010, stepping down in 2024 due to her failing health. For many years she has supported the branch, attending the majority of meetings and social gatherings.
Audrey had a real love for books, poetry and crafts, particularly embroidery and knitting; she had knitted items for Premature Baby Units at the Hospital and ‘Trauma Teddies’ for the Police.
Audrey is survived by daughter Christine and son-in-law David, daughter Gillian, grandchildren Nicola, Alison, Richard and Rachel, and great grandchildren Jake, Emily and Erin.
A funeral service is to be held at 3.30pm Friday 22nd March 2024 at Wear Valley Crematorium, Coundon, Bishop Auckland DL14 8PE.
Family flowers only, donations in lieu to Great North Air Ambulance.
Our thoughts are with Audrey’s family and friends at this sad time.
This year is the 50th anniversary of the Cadet intake of 1974, so a few if us have got together to organise a reunion.
We are meeting at the Garden House (Cartologist), Durham from 6.30pm onward on Thursday 5th September and would love any ex-cadets, from ANY year, to join us and celebrate. All are welcome from any intake year.
Garden House - the premises have been renamed "The Cartologist" and are being renovated but will be completed by September. The management have asked that we give them some idea of numbers, so could you drop me a line if you are planning to come along.
Parking - the pub has limited parking but restrictions on the streets, both front and back, end at 6pm. So there's plenty of parking on the night.
Food - will be available to order from the pub menu on the night.
If you intend to go to the reunion please could you email: durhamnarpo@gmail.com
Please could you provide the intake/ year you joined and which house you were in (Finlay, Bede, Hardwick, Lambton ,Neville. Your details will be forwarded to the organizer's.
The years are rolling by very quickly these days and it will be great to meet up again and reminisce from our time at Aykley Heads (as were no longer 16-19yrs :-) ) and catch up on what we've all been doing these past 50+yrs.
Maria was the widow of the late Inspector 96 Don Smith, who died on 1 July 2016, aged 85 years.
Maria was mother to Dominic, Andreas, James, Fiona, Sean, Kieran, Monica and Lawrence; mother-in-Law to Claire, Earl, Eddie, Jenny and Anthea and grandmother to nine grandchildren.
A funeral service was held at 11.00am Friday 26 January 2024, at St. Mary’s R.C. Church, Vart Road, Bishop Auckland DL14 6PQ, followed by interment at Witton Park Cemetery.
Family flowers only were requested with donations in lieu to The British Heart Foundation.
Our thoughts are with Maria’s family and friends at this sad time.
It is with deep regret that we inform you of the death of a retired Police Officer’s wife, Jeanette Pygall, who died on Monday 26th February 2024, aged 66 years; the loving wife of Retired Detective Superintendent, Denis (Denny) Pygall, having been together since 1973 and marrying in 1976.
Jeanette passed away, suddenly and unexpectedly at home, whilst ‘resting her eyes’ prior to departing to Tenerife the next day, to celebrate her forthcoming birthday on 3rd March.
Jeanette is survived by husband Denis, sons Patrick (serving D/Insp Durham Constabulary), Daniel and Jake; their respective wives Victoria, Jo-Anne and Anna, and seven grandchildren. A much loved wife, mother and grandmother.
A funeral service is to be held at 1.30pm, Wednesday 13th March 2024, at Durham Crematorium, South Road, Durham DH1 3TQ
Family flowers only, donations in lieu to The People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA)
After the funeral, friends are invited to join the family at Durham City Rugby Union Football Club, Hollow Drift, Green Lane, Durham DH1 3JU
Our thoughts are with Jeanette’s family and friends at this sad time.
Bernie joined Durham County Constabulary on 16th June 1951 and served at Sunderland, Norton, Stockton on Tees, Consett, Bishop Auckland, Ferryhill, HQ Aycliffe, Scientific Aids (Forensics) Instructor at Sedgefield Camp, HQ Durham (Forensic). He also taught to the residential Overseas Students at Aykley Heads. Bernie had also served on the Serious Incident Squad (SIS).
He was promoted to sergeant on 13th February 1967 and to Inspector on 29th July 1974.
Bernie was awarded his Police Long Service and Good Conduct Medal and was one of very few Police Officers to receive the Queen’s Silver Jubilee Medal in 1977
He retired from the force on 7th February 1985, after almost 34 years’ service and had been retired for some 39 years; his Record of Service is recorded as Exemplary
Bernie is survived by wife Ada, children Mandy, Neville and his wife Janice, both of whom also served with Durham Constabulary, Tania, grandchildren Lisa and Samantha and great-grandchildren Sebastian and Sophia.
A funeral service is to be held at 15:30hrs Monday 12th February 2024, at Durham Crematorium, South Road, Durham DH1 3TQ
Family flowers only, donations in lieu to Age UK.
After the funeral, friends are invited to join the family at The Honest Lawyer Hotel, Croxdale DH1 3SP
Our thoughts are with Bernie’s family and friends at this sad time.
Delia is survived by son Gary, a retired Durham PC and daughter-in-law Susan.
A funeral service is to be held at 9.30am Thursday 25th January 2024 at Durham Crematorium, South Road, Durham DH1 3TQ
Family flowers only, donations in lieu to RSPCA.
Our thoughts are with Delia’s family and friends at this sad time.
It is believed that Dave joined Durham Constabulary in 1974, retiring in 2004 and was awarded the Police, Long Service and Good Conduct Medal.
It seems that after initial training, Dave’s first posting was at Peterlee. Some 5 years later he transferred to Traffic Patrols North, working the coastal areas, where he spent the majority of his service. His last posting was at Peterlee, where he performed front office duties.
Dave was a much loved Dad and Grandad.
A funeral service is to be held at 10.00am Monday 22 January 2024 at Stanley Street Independent Methodist Chapel, Stanley Street, Seaham SR7 0AH, followed by interment at Christ Church Churchyard, Station Road, Seaham SR7 0BH.
Family flowers only, donations in lieu to the RNLI or North East Air Ambulance.
After the funeral, friends are invited to join the family at The Mallard, Stockton Road, Seaham SR7 8EP.
Our thoughts are with all of Dave’s family and friends at this sad time.
The Annual General Meeting of Durham NARPO
Masonic Centre, Station Road, Chester-le-Street DH3 3DU, on Monday 8th January 2024
Please note that the AGM will commence at 7.30pm
All members welcome to attend and participate
Guest speakers are Chief Constable Rachel Bacon and NARPO Area Rep Bob Watson
Ideal time to meet your old colleagues and friends.
Please try and see if you can attend, meet / vote for who you want on the committee and see the hard work they are doing throughout the year on your behalf
MOST IMPORTANT - Catering Numbers
Please text Sue Knaggs on 07932 613 031 if you are attending the Buffet
Parking : There is a small car park at rear of Masonic Hall. The Osbourne Road council car park is free after 6pm and is only 100yards from the door.
Christmas has passed, we're well into the New Year and as always, January is a glum month.
But not in Seaham.
We are delighted to announce another get together for retired Police Officers ,Support Staff and partners.
It will take place upstairs at The Marlborough, Charles Street, Seaham commencing at 3.00pm on Saturday, 13th January, 2024.
I’ve checked the calendar and Sunderland are away to Ipswich, 5.30pm kick off and Mags are home to Man City, also 5.30 kick off. There's a big telly upstairs, I wonder which match will be on? (It’ll be Sunderland)
This is an open invitation to all who served, worked or covered Seaham and Peterlee Sub-Divisions (even Traffic!).
If you have any queries, will you kindly contact Joyce Teare either by SMS to 07747814879, or email to j.teare57@gmail.com
If you can think of anyone else who may not read this then please pass on the message via word of mouth, FB, Twitter, Whats App or text.
For information, the bar is cash only, no cards or contactless.
We look forward to welcoming you on the 13th January.
Paul Murphy
Bob joined Durham County Constabulary in 1961; after initial training, he was posted to West Hartlepool and in 1964 was transferred to Easington Lane. In 1966 he became an instructor in Cadet Training and after being promoted to Sergeant in 1971 was seconded to the Regional Training School at Dishforth.
After 2 years at Seaham Harbour between 1973-75, he gained a Diploma in Education at Garnett College, London and was seconded to the Central Planning Unit at Pannel Ash, Harrogate where he was promoted to Inspector. During the 1980’s Bob’s postings included a period in the Communications Department and as Chief Inspector, Head of Overseas Training.
After being promoted to Superintendent Bob was head of Research and Development and Force Administration. His final posting was as Divisional Commander at Wear and Tees Division.
Bob had a number of outdoor recreational activities and was Honorary Coach and Assessor with the Amateur Athletic Association (AAA) in Sprinting and Mid-distance running and assessor for the Duke of Edinburgh Awards (Cadet Training). He also represented the force in Golf and Rugby and was involved in the organisation of Durham Constabulary’s Pro-Am Golf Tournaments.
Bob is survived by wife Jenny, sons Simon and Michael, their partners Sarah and Vicky, and grandchildren Aaron, Heidi and Elizabeth.
A funeral service is to be held at 2.30pm Monday 8th January 2024 at Durham Crematorium, South Road, Durham DH1 3TQ
Family flowers only, donations in lieu to Parkinsons UK.
After the funeral, friends are invited to join the family at Ramside Hall Hotel, Carrville, Durham DH1 1TD
Our thoughts are with Bob’s family and friends at this sad time.
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Members should by now have had a copy of the Peeler dropping through their letterbox
Ray said "I sincerely thank all of the volunteers who helped with the latest (Winter 2023) edition of the Durham Peeler magazine.
The compilation of the magazine is very time consuming and the content and quality of the magazine relies heavily on reports, articles and photographs provided by its readers.
If you have anything, either current or historic, please forward it to me for consideration of its inclusion."
If anyone is able to help with the packaging or delivery to fellow NARPO members local to them of the magazine in the future would they please contact Ray Jones (Durham NARPO chairman) .
Ray is available on : 07535 261063 or via email : rayjones2341@gmail.com
To view the Winter 2023 edition of the Durham Peeler online please either click on the image above or on this link : Click here to view Durham Peeler - Winter 2023
John joined Durham County Constabulary in 1972 and after his initial training was posted to Spennymoor. In May 1977 he transferred to Traffic Patrols South, also based at Spennymoor. A move within the Traffic Department in 1996 saw John take up the position of Traffic Intelligence Officer. He then returned to Traffic Patrols in 2000 working with the Motorway and Casualty Reduction Units, before retiring in 2002.
During his police career John received two Commendations.
Prior to joining the Police Service John served in the Royal Navy, during which time he married his lifelong companion, Vera.
John is survived by wife Vera, sons Andrew, Wayne and Lee, their respective partners Wendy, Joanne and Natalie and grandchildren Michael, Lydia, Faith, Tyler, Maisie and Thomas.
A funeral service is to be held at 12.30pm Wednesday 20th December 2023 at Wear Valley Crematorium, Coundon, Bishop Auckland DL14 8PE.
Family flowers only, donations in lieu for the joint benefit of St Cuthbert’s Hospice, Durham and St Paul’s Centre, Spennymoor, organization's who have provided John and Vera with friendship, help and assistance during John’s prolonged illness.
After the funeral, friends are invited to join the family at The Half Moon, Crowther Place, Kirk Merrington, Spennymoor DL16 7JL
Our thoughts are with John’s family and friends at this sad time.
Bob had been a resident of the home since June 2023, having been diagnosed with vascular dementia, a number of years ago.
He joined Durham County Constabulary as a cadet in 1962 before becoming a Regular Officer in the Force. His first posting is believed to have been at Bishop Auckland and that most of his service was within CID.
Throughout Bob’s life he had loved all aspects of football and had been involved in playing, managing and watching the sport.
He also had a great love of nature and in particular, bird watching. He also enjoyed travelling and seeing new places.
Bob is survived by his wife Joan, 2 children, 2 step-children and 9 grandchildren and will be sadly missed by all his family and friends.
A planned Pure Cremation has taken place for Bob and therefore there was no funeral service.
Our thoughts are with Bob’s family and friends at this sad time.
Frank joined Durham County Constabulary on 25th January 1965. His first posting was at Stockton, before moving to Peterlee and then detached beat at Wheatley Hill. In 1967 he took up post at Durham Police Headquarters at Aycliffe, in the Fingerprint Department. After 2 years Frank moved to Durham City and then Framwellgate Section (Panda Driver).
Frank’s next move was a transfer to the Serious Incident Squad (SIS), Meadowfield Base, in 1972; when the SIS was disbanded 2 years later, he transferred to the Crime Support Unit. When promoted to Sergeant in 1977, he moved to Spennymoor.
From 1979, he remained in CID, for the remainder of his service, starting with HQ Drug Squad / 1981 CID Chester-le-Street / 1982 Regional Crime Squad (Gosforth) /1986 CID Peterlee. In 1989 he was promoted to the rank of Inspector in CID and in 1990 he returned to Chester-le-Street. His last posting was to Headquarters Crime Support Unit, where he remained until his retirement on 5th June 1997, after 32 years service.
Frank is survived by his wife, Helena Mary (married in 1965). Sadly, Helena is a resident at St Margaret’s Care Home in Durham City, suffering with Dementia and Alzheimer Disease.
A funeral service is to be held at 11.30am Thursday 30 November 2023 at Durham Crematorium, South Road, Durham DH1 3TQ.
Family flowers only.
Our thoughts are with Frank’s family and friends at this sad time.
John joined Durham County Constabulary in 1948 and after 3 months of Initial Training at Plawsworth, was posted to Durham City. His next posting, 3 years later was to Seaham Colliery Section.
As the result of a simple stop check of a man (pre Police Radios), whilst serving at Seaham, and reporting the check once back at the Police Station, this man was located and subsequently arrested, clearing up a large number of outstanding crimes. Due to his involvement in this investigation, John was commended.
He was posted to Barnard Castle, Stainton Beat in 1955, which included the Army Camps at Streatlam, Barford and Humbleton. Whilst there, John contracted Asian Flu, believed to have been from one of the soldiers, on the regiments return from Hong Kong. Due to the serious effect this had on his health, resulted in a posting to Bishop Auckland as a Court Clerk.
John later trained as a Scientific Aids Officer (SAO), remaining at Bishop Auckland and later attended a CID Course at Coventry.
In 1973 he retired from the Police Service, after 25 years service, to pursue a career in teaching before his age would prevent this.
After training John took up employment with Ushaw Moor Comprehensive School, albeit this was only for a short period as he developed perforated ear drums, leaving him profoundly deaf.
His employment the took another turn and after further training he became an Electronics Technician with Durham University. He finally retired at the age of 65 years.
John is survived by wife June, son Paul, daughter Meg, four grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
A private interment will take place, prior to a funeral service at 1.00pm Thursday 23 November 2023, at The Vineyard Church, 3 Aptec Enterprise Business Park, Darlington Road, West Auckland DL14 9PD.
Any donations in lieu of flowers to Alzheimer Research
Our thoughts are with John’s family and friends at this sad time.
It was first observed in 1919, however until 1945 it was called Armistice Day. Traditionally there is two minutes of silence at the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month because that was the time (in Britain) when the armistice became effective in 1918.
Today, in the UK Remembrance Sunday is also observed on the Sunday nearest to November 11th. So, in the United Kingdom, two minutes' silence is observed on November 11 itself, and on the second Sunday of November. Remembrance Sunday, ceremonies are held at War Memorials, all over the UK and over the years it has become a day to commemorate not just the sacrifice of servicemen and women but the suffering of civilians in times of war.
Remembrance Sunday is commemorated by church services around the UK and a parade of ex-service personnel in London’s Whitehall. Wreaths of poppies are placed on war memorials from the Cenotaph, a war memorial in Whitehall, to the tiniest war memorials in villages all over Britain. Small wooden crosses are placed in Gardens of Remembrance as private acts of remembering individual losses and suffering and people pin poppies to their coat or jacket.
History states that it was the poem 'In Flanders Fields' written in 1915 by Colonel John McCrae, a Canadian Medical Officer, that captured the imagination of the British people in the dark days of trench warfare on the Western Front when so many young soldiers failed to return. Six months before the Armistice, McCrae was brought on a stretcher to a big hospital on the French coast and saw the cliffs of Dover from his room. He died that night and was buried in a cemetery above Wimereux. Before he died, he said to the doctor: "Tell them this . . . If ye break faith with us who die, we shall not sleep." An American woman, Miss Moina Michael, wrote a moving poem in reply and bought 25 red poppies, wearing one herself as a way to keep faith with the war dead; a French woman, Madame Guerin, came up with the practical idea of making and selling artificial poppies to help ex-service men and their dependents in need.
Britain's first Poppy Day was held in 1921 and the money raised helped children in war-devastated areas. The Royal British Legion opened its own poppy factory in London in 1922 to give practical help in time of need to all who have served in the armed forces and their widows and dependents. The paper poppies that are worn today are made by ex-service personnel and are sold by representatives of the Royal British Legion, an organisation of ex-servicemen and women. Today, they make more than 35 million poppies and 65,000 wreaths for the annual poppy appeal. Poppies grew in great abundance in the shell-torn fields of Flanders during the War. Because of its abundance it became the symbol of remembrance of two world wars.
In Flanders' fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place: and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.
We are the dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders' fields.
Take up our quarrel with the foe;
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high,
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders' Fields.
Jim joined Durham County Constabulary on 25 April 1960 and after completing his initial training at Newby Wiske, North Yorkshire was posted to Durham City. After a short stint at Durham, he was posted to Jarrow. His next move was to the Mounted Branch at Stockton-on-Tees, before becoming a Residential Beat Officer at Tow Law.
A change of direction saw Jim become a Scientific Aids Officer (SOCO), later moving into CID as a Detective, both at Bishop Auckland. He finished his time in CID at Durham City, before being promoted to uniform Sergeant with the Dog Section (B Division). Jim later became a Dog Training Instructor at Harperley Hall, Crook.
His final posting was as Town Sergeant at Spennymoor, before being medically retired on 28 October 1987, after 27 years service.
Jim is survived by son Mick, also a retired Durham Constabulary Officer (currently working for North Yorkshire Police), grandchildren Laura, Matthew and Benjamin and great grandchildren Jack and Erin.
A private funeral service is to be arranged.
Family flowers only, donations in lieu to St Teresa’s Hospice.
Our thoughts are with Jim’s family and friends at this sad time.
Ray Jones (Chairman) - Tel: 07535 261063 Email: Durham2@narpo.org in order that catering needs can be provided.
Brian joined Durham County Constabulary in 1966, retiring in 1997.
Following his Initial Training at Newby Wiske, Brian was posted to Hartlepool, later becoming a Scientific Aids Officer before moving to CID, whilst at Hartlepool he also carried out A/Sgt duties. He was then posted to Durham and to Meadowfield Section in 1974. This was followed by 6 years in CID at Durham. In 1983 he carried out duties as Acting Coroner’s Officer before becoming District Collator. He later moved to the Accident Support Unit, initially at Durham and latterly at Chester-le-Street. Brian was also Secretary of Durham City Police Club for many years.
Brian is survived by his wife Valerie, son Paul, daughter Caroline and grandson Brad.
A funeral service is to be held at 2.00pm Monday 30th October 2023 at Durham Crematorium, South Road, Durham DH1 3TQ.
Family flowers only, donations in lieu to Durham Dialysis Unit and Durham Donkey Rescue.
After the funeral, friends are invited to join the family at the Stonebridge Inn, Durham DH1 3RX
Our thoughts are with Brian’s family and friends at this sad time.
Tom joined Durham County Constabulary on 3 March 1969. The majority of his Police Service was in CID, with attachments in Durham City in the early 1970’s. He later joined the CID at Stanley and also worked with the Crime Support Unit at Police HQ and as a D/Sgt at Peterlee. He moved to Darlington and later served with No.2 Regional Crime Squad, based at Boldon. His last posting was at Chester-le-Street in the Criminal Justice Unit, retiring on 2 March 1999, serving with exemplary service.
Tom is survived by his wife Valerie (Val), daughter Julie, son Richard; their respective spouses, Dean and Mellissa and grandchildren Tom, Issy, Molly, Yasmin and Oscar.
A funeral service is to be held at 10.30am Friday 6 October 2023 at Durham Crematorium, South Road, Durham DH1 3TQ.
Family flowers only, donations in lieu to St Cuthbert’s Hospice.
After the funeral, friends are invited to join the family at Durham Indoor Bowling Club, Abbey Road, Pity Me, Durham DH1 5GE.
Our thoughts are with Tom’s family and friends at this sad time.
Stella is the widow of retired Police Sergeant 26, Stephen (Steve) Joseph Regan (Dog Section and Harperley Hall Trainer), who died 30th November 2020, aged 90 years.
Stella cared and supported the family during Steve’s 30-year Police Career, across County Durham and continued during his Dog Training business, set up after his retirement and run from 1986 to the mid 90’s. During these times they forged many strong friendships, which lasted the rest of their lives.
Due to her failing health Stella became a resident of West Lodge Care Home in 2018, joining Steve, who had become resident there 2 years prior.
Stella is survived by sons Philip, Stephen and Stewart, daughter Clare and their respective spouses, Mary, Eleanor, Nicola and Marcus, nine grandchildren and nine great grandchildren, with two more due soon.
A funeral service is to be held at 11.00am Tuesday 3rd October 2023 at Our Lady Immaculate and St Cuthbert RC Church, Church Hill, Crook DL15 9DN
Family flowers only, donations in lieu to Alzheimer’s Society or Cancer Research.
After the funeral, friends are invited to join the family at Crook Golf Club, Low Jobs Hill, Crook DL15 9AA.
Our thoughts are with Stella’s family and friends at this sad time.
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This amnesty will allow retired officers to begin donating to The Police Treatment Centres and they will not have to wait 12 months to access our class leading treatment, subject to clinical assessment.
Our amnesty will run from 8th September to 15th September ONLY.
Our team will be present at the NARPO conference over the coming days and retired officers will be able to see us and complete a hard copy form or sign up through our online direct debit form.
Please note only those forms completed on 8th to 15th September will be eligible for the amnesty.
Here is the link for the online sign up: https://www.thepolicetreatmentcentres.org/sign-up/online-dd
If it is your intention to attend, please contact either Stuart Ingram (Secretary) - Tel: 07989 333025 Email: Durham@narpo.org, or
Ray Jones (Chairman) - Tel: 07535 261063 Email: Durham2@narpo.org in order that catering needs can be provided.
Please Note: Sue Knaggs is unable to provide the catering on this occasion, so please do not contact her with your response.
Steve joined Durham Constabulary in June 1998 and served most of his Police career in Neighbourhood Policing at Chester-le-Street; he retired in December 2015.
Following his retirement from the Police Service, he gained employment with Patient Transport with the North East Ambulance Service.
Steve is survived by wife Lisa and sons William, Tom and Nathaniel.
A funeral service is to be held at 12 noon Wednesday 13th September 2023, at St Paul’s Church, Ryhope Street, Ryhope, Sunderland SR2 0HH, followed by his burial at 1.00pm at Sunderland Cemetery, 28 Kitchener Terrace, Grangetown, Sunderland SR2 9RR.
Family flowers only.
After the funeral, friends are invited to join the family at The Rosedene Public House, Queen Alexandra Road, Tunstall, Sunderland SR2 9BT from 1.30pm.
Our thoughts are with Steve’s family and friends at this sad time.
After this meeting we have now secured a new meeting place for our meetings which we hold in the North of the county. (Previously held at Durham Indoor Bowling Club & Spennymoor Masonic Hall)
We will then REVERT to our agreed meeting of the Second Monday in the month so the following meetings will be held at the Masonic Hall, Station Road, Chester-le-Street DH3 3DU starting at 19.30 hours.
Monday 13th November 2023 - Branch Meeting
Monday 8th January 2024 - This will be our Annual General Meeting
Monday 11th March 2024 - Branch Meeting.
FINAL CALL..... a quick reminder that the NARPO Durham Branch - Sunday Lunch being held at the Masonic Hall Ferryhill on Sunday 3rd September 2023 is approaching quickly.
The booking form and menu choice are within the back page of the last Peeler Magazine.
We have to advise our caterer of final numbers etc at least SEVEN working days before the event. So the final applications that Branch secretary Stuart Ingram can process will be Friday 25th August .
If you cannot put your hands on your copy of the Peeler, you can access it online via this link
PLEASE NOTE : If paying for the meal by BACS the name of the account is: Durham County Branch of the National Association of Retired Police Officers and not as stated on page 22 of the magazine.
It is with deep regret that we inform you of the death of a retired Police Officer, Insp David Corfield, who died at St Teresa’s Hospice, Darlington on 18th May 2023, aged 79 years. David’s wife Carolyn, an accomplished ceramic artist, had died at their Darlington home, with David by her side, on 3rd March 2023, aged 77 years.
David joined Durham County Constabulary as a cadet in 1960, becoming a regular officer on 28th July 1963. In 1966, newly married to Carolyn, he seized the opportunity to experience Channel Island life as a Guernsey policeman. In 1969, due to a family illness, he returned to the North East, rejoining the Durham Force and was posted to Kibblesworth.
He later transferred to Traffic Patrols (South) in the early 1970’s and was later promoted to the rank of Sergeant. In 1979 he attended the Home Office Central Planning Unit at Pannel Ash, Harrogate, where he qualified as an instructor. By 1980 he had passed his Inspector’s exams and in 1984 was seconded to the Police Training Centre at Harperley Hall, near Crook.
In 1985 David gained a Diploma in Supervisory Management and worked as Operational Shift Commander, later becoming Deputy Sub-Divisional Commander. In 1986 he completed Air Reconnaissance Training with the RAF and qualified as an Authorised Firearms Officer the following year.
His remaining years of active service, up until his retirement on 17th October 1993 was spent as A/Chief Inspector at Barnard Castle. Although retired as a Police Officer, David remained with the Force as a civilian member of staff in Traffic Management at Aykley Heads from 1994 until 2000.
Between 2002 and 2005 David was one of six founding members of Darlington Borough Council CCTV Independent Inspectorate. He then continued to work for the National Centre for Social Research; as an Examination Invigilator for both Teesside University and Darlington College; and became an established figure within, and ultimately Chairman of the North Eastern Railway Association.
David and Carolyn are survived by daughter Sue, son Nathan, sister Tina and grandchildren Honor, Rebecca and Kim.
At the request of the couple no funeral services were arranged, however a small memorial service was held for Carolyn, prior to David’s death in May, at St Oswald's Church in Durham, where they were married and their children christened.
A memorial event for David was held on 6th August 2023 for close friends and family at Tanfield Railway, Tanfield Lea, Stanley. Donations in their memory can be sent to St Teresa’s Hospice, Darlington DL3 7UA.
To a genuine gent and to a woman of creative force, our thoughts are with their family and friends at this very sad time.
Barry joined Durham County Constabulary in 1951, as a Police Cadet, working in ‘A’ Division until 1953. In February 1956 he was appointed as PC 1189 with the Force and after initial training was posted to Stockton-on-Tees until 1958 when he was posted to Billingham Village and I.C.I. in 1960 Barry transferred to the Traffic Department, working Motor Patrols, Motorway and Accident Unit. In 1979 he worked in Accident Prevention / Traffic Management in ‘C’ Division.
Between 1967 and 1992 he remained with the RAF Volunteer Reserves.
Barry is survived by wife Connie, daughter Bev and her husband and grandchildren and great-grandchild; son David died in 2008.
A funeral service is to be held at 11.30am Thursday 10th August 2023, at Durham Crematorium, South Road, Durham DH1 3TQ.
Family flowers only, donations in lieu to Marie Curie and Help for Heroes.
After the funeral, friends are invited to join the family at the Duke of Wellington, Darlington Road, Durham DH1 3QN.
Our thoughts are with Barry’s family and friends at this sad time.
He joined Durham County Constabulary in 1961, as a Police Cadet. When eligible, due to age, he joined Durham’s Regular Force and after initial training, he was based in Stockton. Most of Ronnie’s Police career was around the Durham Area and he spent a number of years as a Supervisory Officer within Traffic Patrols (North); his final posting was in the Force’s Headquarters Control Room. He rose through the ranks and was promoted to Inspector some years prior to his retirement in 1998.
Ronnie is survived by wife Eileen, sons Russell and partner Amie, David and wife Sara, daughter Lindsay and partner David and grandchildren Laila, Mollie, Olivia, Harrison, James and Charlotte.
A funeral service is to be held at 11.00am Friday 11th August 2023, at St Mary’s Church, Easington Village, Peterlee SR8 3AR. This will be followed by a private Committal Service at Durham Crematorium, South Road, Durham DH1 3TQ.
Family flowers only, any donations in lieu to St Mary’s Church, Easington Village.
Following the funeral, friends and colleagues are invited to join the family for refreshments at Easington Village Parish Council, Hall Walk, Seaton Holme, Easington Village, Peterlee SR8 3BS.
Our thoughts are with Ronnie’s family and friends at this sad time.
