Copper Plate : Winter 2012 (Issue 88)

Winter 2012 edition of Copper Plate can be viewed by clicking on the image.
You can view older editions of Copper Plate by clicking on the menu bar above or by CLICKING HERE

Happy Christmas from Durham NARPO

Happy Christmas to All our Viewers

Hi there folks, Christmas 2012 starts here, where we do hope that you will have a smile on your face and have happy memories that we have tried to share with you through our Durham NARPO webpages.

To paraphrase and old saying (with a Christmas tilt) “From little pine cones, big pine trees grow”. In January, 2010 a certain Bob Brown set up the NARPO webpages for all colleagues past and present to share. It has been my privilege to be the NARPO Durham Branch Chairman, “fronting” this magnificent information vehicle.
From modest beginnings, we now have a first class information service, PDFs  of the Durham Peeler Magazine and the Copper Plate,  Durham Constabulary’s newspaper.
To make sure everything is “bang up to date” we provide you with a current diary, a series of photo galleries, plus readers’ contributions and comments. All we ask of you is to continue to support our venture. Please forward photographs and articles of interest to your colleagues – essential fuel to keep the blog “red hot”. We always return you valuable photographs almost by return of post.
Doing a statistics count of the 2 years and 11 months that the website has been “live”, we have had a massive 111,800 page views. 
On average we have around 150 to 200 people viewing each day – a figure that rockets when the next : Durham Peeler or Copper Plate pdf’s are published.
We have 202 people on the email list (some of those are from overseas ex pats & retirees) whilst others are not NARPO members, just interested in our activities. We thank them all for their support BUT we do ask you to spread the word, broadcast our web page and see if we can’t attract a lot more of our ex colleagues to forward their email address to us.” It’s good to talk” as Bob Hoskins said in the BT advert.
Keep healthy and stay in touch. We sincerely wish you, one and all a very happy healthy and successful New Year
 
Alan S. Watson
NARPO Branch Chairman
21^stDecember 2012

Jon Stoddart to lead new inquiry into Hillsborough disaster

RECENTLY-RETIRED Durham chief constable Jon Stoddart is to lead a new inquiry into the Hillsborough disaster.

Home Secretary Theresa May announced yesterday that he would lead the fresh police investigation into the deaths of the 96 Liverpool fans at the 1989 FA Cup semi-final at the home of Sheffield Wednesday.

Mr Stoddart has previously had high- profile responsibilities at a national level, he led the independent review of Operation Weeting, the Metropolitan police investigation into phone hacking by the national media and other suspected criminal activity.He also gave evidence to the Leveson Inquiry into phone-hacking in March and was given an OBE in the 2012 New Year’s Honours.

Mr Stoddart said: "I am aware of the great significance and personal responsibility which comes with leading this criminal investigation.   My first priority is to meet with as many of the families as possible and to establish a working, open relationship with them throughout the investigation. I have held a number of meetings already and have been struck by the families’ humility and steadfast determination to see justice delivered for their loved ones.”

"My role is to ensure that we determine exactly what happened in the lead-up to and on the day of the disaster and establish where any culpability lies."

Families welcomed the move as the “first step towards accountability“ but urged all authorities to work together to ensure justice. The announcement came as High Court judges quashed the original accidental death verdicts on the disaster which occurred 23 years ago and ordered a fresh inquest. Both decisions follow a damning report from the Hillsborough Independent Panel in September, which laid bare the attempts to shift blame for the tragedy onto its victims.

Mr Stoddart will work closely with the previously announced Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) investigation into police conduct in the aftermath of the disaster. Both investigations will be conducted from the same office in Warrington, Cheshire. The Stoddart investigation will be into a range of agencies outside the IPCC’s remit but in order to maintain independence, the IPCC will look at the actions of police officers in relation to the deaths.

In addition to announcing a new investigation, a Liaison Board will be established to bring together all organisations working on behalf of the Hillsborough families. Mr Stoddart will be able to recruit investigators and staff to his team but will not be allowed to employ officers or former officers who have prior connection to the Hillsborough disaster.He is also unable to recruit any officers or former officers who worked in West Midlands, South Yorkshire or Merseyside police forces.

The investigation may trigger criminal prosecutions, the Home Secretary said, which will be the responsibility of the Director of Public Prosecutions and the Crown Prosecution Service.

Mr Stoddart has been appointed to Metropolitan Police as assistant commissioner to carry out the investigation.

Death of a retired Police Officer : PC 1225 William Harland

It is with regret that we announce the death of retired PC 1225 William Harland, who died on the 8th December, aged 87 years.
William was a beloved husband to the late Jennie and a dear dad to Alan.
William Harland retired from Dertwentside in 1977 after 21 years' service; he had previously served at Jarrow, Consett, and Bradley.

Death of a retired Police Officer : Sgt 163 George Henry Cartwright

It is with regret that we announce the death of retired Sgt 163 George Henry Cartwright, who died on the 23rd November , aged 90 years.
He leaves a son John and a daughter Helen.
George Cartwright retired from Teesdale in 1977 after 30 years service, he had previously served at HQ, Easingwold, Consett, Highgate, The Grove, West Hartlepool and Barnard Castle.

Police and crime commissioner : former Durham ACC, Ron Hogg elected

LABOUR'S Ron Hogg has won the election to become Durham's police and crime commissioner.

Ron Hogg won with 36,171 votes, beating independent Kingsley Smith on 18,813, UKIP's Mike Costello on 8,257 and Conservative Nick Varley on 6,900.

There was only a 14.7% turnout in the election.

Death of a retired Police Officer : Insp. 399 Richard Reynolds Brown

It is with regret that we announce the death of retired Insp. 399 Richard Reynolds Brown, who died on the 11th November, aged 82 years.
His next of kin is Barbara Millicent Brownlie.
Mr Brown retired from HQ in 1984 after 31 years' service, he had previously served at Chester-le-Street, Hebburn and Jarrow.

Help Wanted….. re PC 981 Sydney Bell

P.C. 981 Sydney Bell. West Hartlepool.

I am in possession of this and several other photographs of P.C. Sydney Bell but to my chagrined I can’t recall from whom I got them.

Can anyone out there enlighten me regarding the history of this officer and details of his career please .I’m afraid  my memory isn’t what it used to be!

Alan S. Watson  (Editor of Durham Peeler magazine)

A moment to reflect

"They shall not grow old,
As we that are left grow old:
Age shall not weary them,
Nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun
And in the morning
We will remember them."
Laurence Binyon (1869-1943)

Death of a retired Police Officer : Sgt 186 John Waller

It is with regret that we announce the death of retired Sergeant 186 John Waller, who died on the 6th November, aged 96 years.
He leaves a widow Freda Margaret Waller and a son Donald Waller.
John Waller retired from HQ in 1969 after 31 years' service, he had previously served at Barracks, Jarrow, Darlington, Consett, Annfield Plain and Stanley, serving in CID & Traffic departments.
Upon retirement Mr Waller continued to work in various civilian departments including driving school until finally retiring in 1981.

Durham Peeler–Winter 2012

Chairman Alan Watson has once again been hard at work over the past few months putting together the latest edition of the Durham Peeler.

Click on the image to go to the Durham Peeler webpage where you can then click on the images of the Peeler and either read them online or download them to your own computer in pdf format

Members will shortly receive their printed editions through the letterbox.

If any of our readers has a story that you would like put into print, in the Durham Peeler then please email us on durhamnarpo@gmail.com and we will forward your details to the Editor – Alan Watson

Death of a retired Police Officer : Inspector George Moses

It is with regret that we announce the death of retired Police Inspector George Moses, who died on the 4th November 2012, aged 86 years.
He does not leave a widow but he leaves a son Dave Moses (Ex Durham & North Yorks).
Mr Moses joined the Durham Constabulary in 1948 and served throughout the County area. He was promoted from Sgt to Inspector whilst at Barnard Castle and was transferred to Sunderland where he remained until his retirement in 1976 after 28 years service . We do not have full details of his postings and service history as he transferred to Northumbria police upon amalgamation in 1974.

Death of a retired Police Officer : PC 782 Neil Hall

It is with regret that we announce the death of retired Police Officer 782, Neil Hall who died on the 4th November 2012 aged 80 years.
He leaves a widow Anne Hall, daughter Judith Taylor & a son John.
He retired from HQ comms in 1983 after 30 years' service, he previously served at Stockton, Hebburn and Mounted Branch at Harperley Hall.

Date for your diary : Next meeting of NARPO (Durham Branch)

The next meeting of NARPO (Durham Branch) will be held at 7.30pm on Monday 12^th November at Bishop Auckland Hospital Club.
Light buffet afterwards. All members or prospective members are invited to come along & enjoy
If you don't know where to go, Click On This Link and you'll see a map of the location and you can get driving directions to it.

Death of a retired Police Officer - Supt. Joseph John Veitch

It is with regret that we announce the death of retired Superintendent, Joseph John Veitch, who died on the 5th November, aged 95 years.
He leaves a daughter Janet Stables, he does not leave a widow.
He retired from HQ in 1968 following 30 years' service; he had previously served at Jarrow, Bishop Auckland, Durham, Houghton, Hetton, Staindrop and Barnard Castle.

Death of a retired Police Officer - PW 65 Jean M Peck

It is with great sadness that we have to inform you of the death of a retired Police Officer -  PW 65 Jean M PECK.
Jean died unexpectedly in UHND on Sunday 21st October, aged 79 years, having lived in Melbury Court, Durham for some time.
Jean was appointed 02.09.1963 and was stationed at West Hartlepool, Darlington, Peterlee then onto Traffic in 1967. In 1970 she went to Jarrow then onto Chester-le-Street and in 1976 worked Lambton section.
In 1979 Jean went to NECRO returning to Enq/Comms at Chester-le-Street in 1980 for three months.  Jean then moved to the Schools Team(Accident Prevention) in 1981 finishing her service in Control Room in 1985

The forthcoming Police Commissioner Elections

Ron Hogg  has taken the trouble to make direct contact with NARPO and shown commitment by furnishing details of his stance on the new post of Police Commissioner for Durham.  We have published his words for information of all members.

There are three other official candidates for the election on 15^th November, 2012 who have not yet made contact albeit they  have an equal right to address our blog if they so wish. We are completely neutral and non- political on this issue. If they are not aware of NARPO then WHY NOT?  it tells its own story as far as I’m concerned.

Our members can get further information on each of the candidates by clicking on this link :

 http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-19510224

I am not inclined to pursue each candidate directly – if candidates or our members are interested they, have a ready source of reference as outlined above.

Let me make it quite clear that  we are completely open minded and  NOT politically inclined nor showing any preference for any of the candidates

List of Candidates:

Mike Costello : UK Independence Party (Worked for many years at Durham Police H.Q. for many years as head of the IT Unit)

Ron Hogg : Labour ( Ex Deputy Chief Constable Cleveland and ex A.C.C. Durham)

Kingsley Smith : Independent (former Chief Executive Officer of Durham County Council)

Nick Varley : Conservative

 

Alan S. Watson

Chairman, Durham Branch N.A.R.P.O.

Letter to NARPO members from Ron Hogg

Dear Colleague’s,
It was with a great sense of personal regret that I retired from the Police Service, just over 4 years ago, after 30 years service. It is an emotion that, I know, each of you will be familiar with.
However, I have been provided with the opportunity to once more serve our communities in the role of Police and Crime Commissioner. I have been selected as the Labour Party Candidate for Durham Constabulary. I find the opportunity of being associated once more with the Constabulary truly exciting and I hope that I can persuade you to support me by voting on 15^th November.
These are difficult times for the service and I believe that the Commissioner needs a clear understanding of policing and working with communities if they are to be successful.
I attach for your information a brief statement of my commitments and hope that you will choose to support my nomination.
With very best wishes,
Ron Hogg

 
Election Address – Ron Hogg

As your Police and Crime Commissioner I promise to listen to your needs, seek out the concerns of all and tackle them. I will hold the Service to account on your behalf.
I will resist and make clear the impact of the Government cuts which have already cost 140 officers and 200 police staff.
I will ensure that we maintain neighbourhood policing at current levels and maintain a mix of police officers and PCSOs. We will deliver local policing, working with local people to deliver local solutions.

I will resist the drive for privatisation of your police service, ensuring that policing remains for people and not for profit. In this regard I will seek to develop imaginative solutions to ensure that public services continue to be delivered by public sector employees.
I will work tirelessly to protect all members of our community, but especially the weak and the vulnerable. I will work with the victims and witnesses to crime so that we can improve our service to them. I will tackle domestic violence which makes up one third of all violent crime. I shall ensure that through me our communities have a voice.
I will address known concerns such as anti-social behaviour and drug and alcohol related problems, and work with the Police and partners to ensure a coordinated response in tackling and reducing crime.
In short I promise to work with you and to work for you. I have 30 years policing experience working at the highest levels and I know that I can make a difference.

Death of a retired Police Officer - PC 1193 Brian Stabler

It is with regret that we announce the death of retired Police Officer 1193, Brian Stabler who died on the 20th October aged 70 years. He leaves a widow Ms Shirley Stabler.
Brian retired from Wear Valley in 1990 after 24 years service, he previously served at Newton Aycliffe, HQ Traffic patrols and Darlington.

Death of a retired Police Officer : Insp. Vic Errington

It is with regret that we announce the death of retired Insp. Victor George Errington who died on 10^th October 2012 aged 71 years.

Mr Errington joined Durham Constabulary in 1959 having previously been a Police Cadet for 2 years. He retired in 1989 after having served the majority of his service on Traffic Dept.

Death of a retired Police Officer : Chief Constable Eldred Boothby QPM

It is with regret that we announce the death of retired Chief Constable Eldred Boothby QPM who died on 11th October 2012 aged 83 years.
Mr Boothby commenced his Police career in 1949 and severed at Cheshire Constabulary, Surrey Police and Northamptonshire Police before joining Durham Constabulary in 1979 as Chief Constable until his retirement in 1988.

Death of a retired Police Officer : PC856 James Edwin Duff

It is with regret that we announce the death of retired Police Officer, PC 856 James Edwin Duff, who sadly passed away on the 3rd October 2012. He leaves a widow Dorothy Duff.
James Edwin Duff retired from HQ in 1983 after 30 years' service. He had previously served at Darlington, Blaydon and Stockton.

Copper Plate–Summer 2012 (Issue 87)

Summer 2012 edition of Copper Plate can be viewed by clicking on the image.
You can view older editions of Copper Plate by clicking on the menu bar above or by CLICKING HERE

Chief Constable John Stoddart steps down at the start of October

Chief's retirement message..
In his last few weeks as a serving police officer, Chief Constable Jon Stoddart has spoken of his plans to keep active - and his pride at leading the force over the last seven years.
Mr Stoddart steps down at the start of October, bringing to an end a distinguished 30-year career.
Newcastle born and bred, he was educated at the city's Royal Grammar School and then Northumbria University.
But his plans to join the police after graduating were put on ice for almost two years, courtesy of a broken ankle sustained during a rugby game.
He finally joined his local force in 1982 and was singled out for accelerated promotion, reaching the rank of chief superintendent during his 16 years with Northumbria.
After moving to Lincolnshire as assistant chief constable, he returned to the north east in 2003 to become Durham's deputy chief. Two years later he succeeded Paul Garvin in the top job
"It's the appropriate time to retire and will be helpful to the incoming police and crime commissioner to have a new chief constable, someone who no doubt intends to be in place for a number of years. But I plan to carry on working in some capacity and involved in a number of causes close to my heart," said Mr Stoddart.
"I feel young enough to keep exercising those 'little grey cells', and it will also keep me out of the house.
"But I will miss policing terribly. Durham will always be my number one force and I am proud of its fantastic achievements. The Durham culture is one of working with partners and the community to tackle the root causes of problems so we can solve them permanently," said the chief, who was awarded an OBE in the last New Year's Honours list.
He is also delighted the force is able to recruit once again, after a period when officer and staff numbers were steadily falling.
"As chief I inherited a force which was already downsizing and finance was very tight. Previous chiefs had enjoyed the luxury of being able to increase the workforce on the back of revenue streams from the Home Office.
"The whole redundancy and restructuring process was painful, but we got ahead of the game compared to most other forces. The end result is that we are now in a far better place than many."
Looking ahead to the issues facing the force over the next few years Mr Stoddart remains confident Durham is equipped to meet the issues head-on.
"Mike Barton will succeed me as acting chief and I know he and the rest of the executive will do a tremendous job easing us through those early stages under a police commissioner," he said.
"When I first came to Durham the force had six basic command units, as many as 11 control rooms and an IT system which frankly, didn’t work. Now we have restructured to become more efficient, we are about to start building a new headquarters and we have more modern, streamlined ways of carrying out our business," he said.
Over the last few years Mr Stoddart has also been the national police spokesman on alcohol issues, and he is convinced the easy access to cheap drink is something which must be tackled.
"I'm a firm believer in a minimum unit price for alcohol. Quite simply it is far too cheap and far too easily available. And I think it is only now being recognised that alcohol abuse is something which goes across all social classes, causing immense problems for our emergency and health services."
As he contemplates his change of life, 53-year-old Mr Stoddart thanked his family for their support throughout his career. His wife, Kate has just finished an education degree and is taking up a post with a school for special needs students in Northumberland. And his retirement also means he will get to see more of his son, 13-year-old George as well as freeing up time to maintain his passion for cycling.
"There are lots of challenges ahead, but Durham Constabulary is in good hands. I am sure the organisation and its people will respond positively to those challenges and continue our excellent record," he said.

CG REUNION LUNCH

Durham Indoor Bowling Club, Pity Me.
Friday, 9^th November 2012
12 Noon for 1pm.
Cost : £15:25

*****************************
You are cordially invited to the 15^th annual reunion.
The cost includes: welcome drink, four course lunch and raffle.
The menu comprises:-
Vegetable soup,
Roast beef or chicken breast (both with Yorkshire pudding)
Gateaux and cheese board,
Tea/coffee.
The vegetarian option is Tuna Pasta Bake.

The closing date is Friday 26^th October, 2012, there can be no refunds on any cancellation after this date.

Cheque's (payable to CG Fund) together with choice of main course forwarded to:-
H. ANGUS. 26 EDLINGHAM RD., DURHAM, DH1 5YS
Tel. No. 01913840505

The Prince’s Trust needs volunteers

Are you a retired police officer, or about to retire?

Are you interested in making a real and lasting difference to the lives of young people in your local community? If so, The Prince’s Trust has a range of volunteering opportunities available to you.

The Prince’s Trust work with 13 to 30 year-olds who have struggled at school, have been in care, are long-term unemployed or have been in trouble with the law. They give practical and financial support, developing key workplace skills such as confidence and motivation. 

The Prince’s Trust help 100 young people every day and more than three in four of them move into work, education or training.

Whether you have a few hours a month or are available full-time, there is a rewarding and challenging volunteering opportunity for you. If you can give:

• four hours every month you can mentor a young person and help them to progress in life

• one or two days a week you could help coordinate other volunteers to enable them to support young people

• 20 days over a 12-week period you could support 15 young people as they progress through a personal development programme

Opportunities are available throughout Wales and England - from Bangor to Barry and Cornwall to Cumbria.

For more details please contact Bob Clewley on : retired.police@princes-trust.org.uk

For more information about the work of The Prince’s Trust please visit the website princes-trust.org.uk

Next Meeting of Durham NARPO–Monday 3rd September

The next meeting of NARPO (Durham Branch) will be held at 7.30pm on Monday 3^rd September at Durham Indoor Bowling Centre.
Light buffet afterwards. All members or prospective members are invited to come along & enjoy
If you don't know where to go, Click On This Link and you'll see a map of the location and you can get driving directions to it.

Death of a retired Police Officer : Superintendent 173 Jack Perks

It is with regret that we announce the death of Superintendent 173 John William Perks, better known as Jack, who died on the 20th August aged 84 years.
Jack Perks retired from HQ in 1986, following 36 years' service he had previously served at HQ training, Darlington, Mundeville, East Howle, Ingleton, West Auckland, West Hartlepool, Belle Vue, Darlington, Harperley Hall, Newton Aycliffe, Sedgefield and Wear Valley.

Death of a retired Police Officer : Chief Superintendent 606 Tom Coates

It is with regret that we announce the death of retired Chief Superintendent 606 Tom Coates who died on the 13th August 2012, aged 83 years.
Tom Coates retired from HQ in 1984 after 34 years service, he had previously served at Blaydon, Felling, Whickham, Annfield Plain, Durham, Sunderland, Spennymoor and Sedgefield.

Going for Gold…..

Most of the ‘BikeWise Team’ will be heading south on two wheels tomorrow to help Police the Olympic Games……

The team will be performing duties at the road based cycling events which will include the men's and ladies Road Races and Individual Time Trial events, which will be held this Saturday & Sunday and then next Tuesday and Wednesday.

Look out for the Durham Police FJR’s on your TV screens as our motorcycle riders rub shoulders with Bradley Wiggins, Mark Cavendish & co (although I wouldn't want to sprint against ‘Cav’ even on a FJR !!)

No doubt the team will have some interesting stories and photo's of the events, when they return home late next week.

Here’s hoping they at least get a bit more sunshine down south than we’ve been having recently

Death of retired Police Officer - Inspector Gerard Rodgers

It is with regret that we announce the death of retired former Inspector Gerard RODGERS aged 65 years.
Mr Rogers retired from Durham Constabulary in February 1996.

 

Death of serving Special Constable 3203 Adrian Marshall

It is with deep sadness and regret that we have to notify colleagues of the sudden and unexpected death of serving Special Constable 3203 Adrian MARSHALL, 45yrs, who died Friday 20th July 2012 whilst off duty.
Adrian has been a member of the Special Constabulary for the past 13yrs working predominantly in the Durham City area.

Death of retired Police Officer : PC 463 Charles Cyril Nicholson

It is with regret that we have to inform you of the death of retired PC 463 Charles Cyril Nicholson, who died on the 26th June 2012, aged 85yrs.

Following his retirement as a Police Officer, Cyril also served as a civilian Driving Instructor.

Mr Nicholson leaves a widow Elsie Mary Nicholson.

BikeWise 2012 – Sunday 1st July

That’s the date for your diary – the 18th annual BikeWise event at the Police HQ, Aykley Heads, Durham.
CLICK ON THIS LINK TO READ WHATS ON

More updates to be made leading up to the event on Sunday

Death of a retired Police Officer–PC1309 William (Bill) Ward

It is with regret that we announce the death of retired PC 1309 William Ward from Seaham, who died on the 05/06/12 aged 79 years.
Mr Ward retired from Seaham in 1985 following 14 years service. He had previously served at Stockton and Chester le Street.

3rd. Retirees Reunion & Social Afternoon Spectacular. Sunday 20th May, 2012

Thanks to the enthusiastic co-operation of Chief Constable Jon Stoddart, his Executive Officers, Strategic Planning personnel and our Durham Executive Officers, we have over the last three years, fostered a unique, close and harmonious partnership between serving and retired officers and staff.

Our reunions are open to ALL members of Durham Constabulary i.e. police and police support staff both serving and retirees.  This year, in view of two other important attractions such as the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and the Olympic Games, we brought our event forward a month to Sunday, 20th May, 2012 (We didn’t want to be accused of weakening support numbers for those events…..!

The main entertainment and attractions included the musical spectacular by Durham Constabulary Band, an equally great recital by the Durham Police Choir, action demonstrations by the Dog Section, conducted tours of Control Room,  the Regional Police Helicopter created quite a stir of interest,  and businessman, Bill Tonks voluntarily brought his vintage MG TC 1946 ex  Kent police sports car.
On arrival everyone had their photograph taken to be collected and mounted in an excellent modern programme of events. The main attraction to most of course was simply to meet friends and have a good old exchange of “war stories” – fortunately, everyone had a clear name tag presented to make it easier to “recall” (when you put your spectacles on) the names of familiar faces from the distant past – strange how others get older whilst you don’t seem to have aged a day…?

Delightfully informative displays were on hand from  the Durham Constabulary Archives; The Blue Knights, N.A.R.P.O. Committee (who also ran an extra ordinarily successful raffle, raising £312.00 toward the running costs of the event); and a display of artist’s impressions of the proposed new Durham Constabulary H.Q. which hopefully will get the go ahead soon.

Chief Constable Jon Stoddart, A.C.C. Michael Banks, their families and ALL Chief Superintendents were in support of the estimated 180 happy people who had the good fortune to attend. Altogether, everyone had a wonderful afternoon and were appreciative of the hard work that went in to making of such a lovely day.

Extracts from Letters of appreciation  :

Victor (ex P.C. 1667) Brown & Mary Brown. “What a grand time we had at the reunion on Sunday. The organisers made a splendid job of making sure there was never a dull moment, whilst allowing plenty of opportunity to catch up with old colleagues. I met folks who remembered me but were “total strangers” and folks I’d known, but denied we’d ever met! All good fun though.”

Barry & Elsie Wood: “Our thanks to all who arranged the re-union for retired officers last Sunday. Another smashing day where memories for names were tested and good to see some of the old faces again. We enjoyed it.”

       
Tommy Tipler & family: “It would be totally remiss of me if I didn’t record our appreciation of all the efforts of the NARPO Committee and H.Q.Staff who gave up their time to make the afternoon such a remarkable success. Well done. It was well worth the 180 mile round trip.”

Mrs. Freda Brown (well into her 90’s but still appreciative):  “Many thanks for all the hard work and time you have given to the NARPO Reunion It was an extremely busy day for you, your committee and helpers. I enjoyed the afternoon,  meeting ‘old friends’ Unfortunately I didn’t manage to chat with you. I felt most comforted being there, having felt the loss of many old friends this year. Grateful thanks and good wishes to all.”

(To view the pictures in the album at a larger size then click on an image)

Death of a retired Police Officer - Chief Superintendent Leslie (Les) Granlund

It is with deep sadness that we have to advise you of the death of retired Chief Superintendent Leslie (Les) Granlund,who died on 17th May 2012, aged 80 years.
Les retired from Durham Constabulary in 1985 after a long and distinguished career.

Death of a retired Police Officer - PC2042 Thomas Aikenhead

It is with regret that we announce the death of retired PC 2402 Thomas Aikenhead from Reading, who died on the 12th May 2012 aged 88 years.
Mr Aikenhead retired from Peterlee in 1976. He had previously served at HQ, Wingate, West Hartlepool, C.I.D Admin and Chester le Street.

Death of a retired Police Officer - Jeffrey Charles Leng

It is with regret that we have to inform you of the death of a retired Police Officer, Jeffery Charles Leng, age 64 years.

Mr Leng retired from Northumbria in May 2000 but he served with Durham Constabulary at Houghton-le-Spring, between 1970 and 1974, he was also a Police Cadet.

The 3rd Retirees Reunion and Social Afternoon

We are no longer taking names for the event this weekend.  Unfortunately we have to draw the line somewhere and would hate for people to attend and not be catered for, as numbers have now been submitted.

Those of you who are attending should have or will be receiving a ticket through the post which will be exchanged for a name badge at the reception desk upon arrival at HQ. Arrival is from 1330hrs.

Death of a Police Widow - Margaret Maughan

It is with regret that we have to inform you of the death of Margaret MAUGHAN (nee Shield) of Whitesmocks, Durham, who died on May 2. Margaret, aged 83 years was the wife of the late John Maughan.

No Insurance for Texting Drivers

AN INCREASING number of insurance companies are refusing to insure drivers who have been caught using a mobile phone at the wheel.

According to an AA survey of eight major insurers, half of them would not quote anyone who has been given three points for the CU80 offence, while the other half would raise their premium by 20%.

Spokesman Ian Crowder said: ‘Insurers are taking mobile phone offences very seriously. Their opinion is a motorist might break a 30mph speed limit without noticing but no one sends a text message, email or makes a phone call behind the wheel by accident.

‘It might seem severe but when operating a mobile phone you don’t have both hands on the steering wheel, you aren’t looking fully at the road and can’t change gears safely.’

More than 170,000 motorists a year in England and Wales are caught using their phones while driving.

Car insurers are refusing to cover motorists caught using a mobile phone at the wheel – even first-time offenders.

Auto Express magazine has found that some insurers will increase policy prices for offenders even more. A spokesman for Adrian Flux said: “Rises would vary from insurer to insurer, but could be anywhere from 15 per cent to 50 per cent or even a refusal.”

This tough stance extends to other offences, too. The table (below) spells out the AA’s findings, and as you can see, even a minor speeding violation – an SP30 – will send premiums soaring.

Seven of the eight cover providers contacted by the AA admitted that would be enough for a premium rise, and one wouldn’t even offer a quote.

Research suggests that premium hikes for speeders can be far higher than even the 9.3 per cent quoted by the AA.

A spokesman for LV said: “Typically, if a new customer had a speeding conviction in the last year, then their premium could rise by 10-20 per cent.”

The news will surprise many drivers, as traditionally insurers have opted not to penalise those with three points on their licence. A similar AA survey in 2009 found that 50 per cent of insurers would overlook a minor speeding offence.

When companies where asked why motorists’ premiums are now being hiked for this. An AA spokeswoman explained: “When speed cameras were first introduced, everyone was getting caught and insurers took a more lenient view, but now motorists are used to cameras, insurers won’t ignore three points.”

Direct Line said it was down to stats, with a spokesman adding: “Drivers with motoring convictions are 40 per cent more likely to claim than those with no convictions.”

An Association of British Insurers (ABI) spokesman said providers were hardening their view. “With the rising costs of claims, insurers hike premiums even in response to a motorist’s first three points,” he explained.

When asked why motorists caught using their phone at the wheel were penalised more harshly than speeders, even though three points are dished out for both offences. An AA spokesman said: “Anecdotal evidence suggests motorists caught using a mobile are twice as likely to make a claim than with other offences.”

Simon Douglas, director of AA Insurance, added: “Using a mobile phone while driving is a deliberate act. Many drivers may accidentally drift over a 30mph limit without realising. But no one accidentally makes or answers a call or text.”

How convicted drivers are being hit in pocket

The AA obtained quotes from eight unnamed insurers on its panel to see the effect of different offences on premiums. It based the figures on a 40-year-old man driving a Ford Mondeo.

Offence assumptions:

SP30 (speeding) – three points and £60 fine

CU80 (handheld phone) – three points and £60 fine

CD10 (careless driving) – six points and £100 fine

Insurer	Clean	1 x SP30 (3pts)	2 x SP30 (6pts)	1 x CU80 (3pts)	1 x CD10 (6pts)
A	£298.15	£332.73	No quote	No quote	No quote
B	£312.79	£344.07	No quote	No quote	No quote
C	£331.33	£366.2	£398.92	£376.72	£423.44
D	£378.2	£395.98	£509.06	£499.22	£504.52
E	£391.5	£441.22	£491.33	No quote	No quote
F	£491.28	£508.63	£532.55	£563.99	£588.55
G	£434.17	£466.73	£494.95	£495.39	£505.81
H	£434.44	No quote	No quote	No quote	No quote
Avg increase		9.3%	23.6%	18.5%	24.4%

Copper Plate – Spring 2012 (Issue 86)

Spring 2012 edition of Copper Plate can be viewed by clicking on the image.
You can view older editions of Copper Plate by clicking on the menu bar above or by CLICKING HERE

“Dust & Dreams” by Robin Trounson

Retired Chief Superintendent, Robin Trounson has put into print the story of his three-year secondment to the Middle East.
Robin, who served with Durham Constabulary for 30 years, was on the point of retiring in 2008 when the chance arose to work in the Middle East.
He was invited to act as a specialist advisor with the Abu Dhabi force in the United Arab Emirates, working alongside several other Durham officers already based in the oil-rich Gulf state.
On his return to the UK last year, Robin decided to chart his experiences in a book called “Dust and Dreams – a window on the United Arab Emirates”, which he describes as part diary, part travelogue and part history.
The book touches on the difficulties of bringing a Western performance management ethos into a different culture, but concentrates on the wider picture of life in a rapidly changing Arab country.
Drawing on his law and ancient history degree, the author illustrates how the headlong rush to make the Emirates a hub for culture, sport and tourism sometimes sits uneasily with its traditions and relatively recent poverty.
“I had planned to travel in my retirement but this gave me the chance to work and travel at the same time,” said Robin. “The book is more about what I saw and experienced on my travels round the Emirates than the job I went there to do. 

While we were there you had the start of the Arab uprising and yet, in that troubled part of the world you have a country now celebrating 40 years still united, which people said would never  work, and yet it has.”

“Dust and Dreams” is available from The People’s Bookshop (0191 384 4399) in Saddlers Yard, Durham for £9.99. It can also be ordered through Amazon and at authorsonline.co.uk

All author’s royalties are going to “Plan”, a global children’s charity tackling poverty and suffering in some of the world’s poorest communities.

British Legion Poppy Appeal 2012

Email received via NARPO HQ from Alice Fisher of the British Legion :

Each year, in early November some 30,000 Legion volunteers take to the streets with poppies and collecting boxes, raising millions of pounds for the Poppy Appeal. The money collected at this time and from numerous other fundraising activities throughout the year, goes to providing help and support to serving and ex-Service men and women and their dependants. Without volunteer collectors out there on the streets, without appeal organisers planning the collections, this great cause - that helps thousands of ex-Service men and women every year - would grind to a halt.

I am hoping that you could circulate the attached flier amongst your organisation as November is fast approaching and our need for new volunteers to assist us is as great as ever. This year’s collection runs from October 27th to November 11th 2012.

Additionally if there are other ways you think your members would like to be involved I would love to discuss this further.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Kind regards

Alice

If you feel you could offer any assistance to the British Legion or want further details please email : AFisher@britishlegion.org.uk

Death of a retired Police Officer - Inspector Michael E. Flanagan

It is with the deepest sadness and regret that we have to advise you of the death of retired colleague, Inspector Michael E Flanagan who died this morning Friday 20th April 2012 aged 63 years.

Michael joined Durham Constabulary as a Police Cadet on 31st August 1965 remaining in that role until his appointment on 20th May 1968 as a serving police constable. 

He served in Training, Hartlepool, Teesdale, Darlington and Consett including almost a year working with Teesside Police.  He was promoted to Sergeant in 1977 and served at Stanley, Annfield Plain and Force Training.  In 1984 he was promoted to Inspector and served at Wear Valley, Chester-le-Street, HQ Admin, Consett and Control Room.  In 1982 Michael became Deputy Sub Divisional Commander for Chester-le-Street before moving into Police Recruiting then Durham City. 

He retired as an inspector in Control Room on 29th February 2004.Michael was to remain part of the organisation taking up clerical posts in Communications, Central Admin, Support Services, IS &T, and Resourcing leaving the organisation on 17th March 2009.

He is survived by his wife, Joyce, and his two daughters Lynn and Jill who are very much in our thoughts at this difficult time.

A funeral service will be held on Friday 27th April 2012 at 10:15 at All Saints Parish Church, Durham Road, Lanchester (DH7 0LJ)
Please note this is the Church of England Church on Durham Road in Lanchester and not All Saints RC Church which is also in the village.
The service will be followed by cremation at Mounsett Crematorium, Dipton at 11:00.
There are to be family flowers only however donations in lieu of flowers if so desired have been requested for Marie Curie Cancer Care

The 3rd Retirees Reunion and Social Afternoon–Book your Tickets

The 3rd Retirees Reunion and Social Afternoon Spectacular - Sunday 20th May, 2012
Durham Constabulary H.Q.  Aykley Heads, Durham. 1.30pm to 5pm.

Almost here – Just over a month to go…..  Please have a look at your diaries and ‘book the afternoon’ and catch up with some ‘old’ faces

Many of you will have already experienced this great social get together, organised as a joint event by Durham Constabulary and Durham N.A.R.P.O. Committee.
Just in case you haven’t heard about it, we invite ALL members of Durham Constabulary, police and police support staff both serving and retirees  past and present, to come along and enjoy a truly friendly and sociable afternoon. A great deal of planning by the Force Strategic Management team, the N.A.R.P.O. Committee members and a host of willing volunteers once again promises to make it an afternoon to remember. A number of you have in the past missed out, believing that you don’t know many people now, but here you have the opportunity to renew old acquaintances and friends. It is also an opportunity to socialise with serving officers and Staff who continue the proud traditions of Durham Constabulary.

We are concerned that many of our retired police staff personnel may not be aware (even now!) of the now annual social occasion. If you know any past employees, please share with them this information and give them the opportunity to share it too. 

There will be entertainment by the Durham Constabulary Band and Choir, demonstrations by the Dog Section and Motor Patrols, displays by Durham H.Q. Archives, N.A.R.P.O. Beamish Museum , the Blue Knights and more. 
Light refreshments will be provided (but please don’t expect a full meal – times is hard…!);  a superb raffle organised by N.A.R.P.O.; a souvenir programme and your own personal photograph to commemorate the occasion and best of all, the friendly atmosphere and “war stories” that only old friends can generate between each other. You’re only here once, so why not make the most of this joyous and friendly event.
Please Note:

• Admission is by ticket only for security purposes and also to gauge numbers for catering etc.
• Tickets are FREE. Remember -  No ticket – no entry!
• If lack of transport is a real problem, contact us – we MAY be able to help.

To Order your ticket(s)  – contact the people below

Retired Police Officers (non NARPO) and Retired Police Support staff, please order from:
Colin Appleby, 21, Lea Rigg, West Rainton, Houghton le String, DH4 6SR. Tel No. 0191 5846178.
Email: appleby.colin@btinternet.com

N.A.R.P.O Members including Widows, please order from:
Mrs. Angie Crawford, 8, Warwick Place, Peterlee, SR2 2EZ. Tel No. 01915180996. Email angiechilton@yahoo.com.

Serving Police Support Staff and Serving Officers please order from
Amanda Dodds or Amanda Wilson, Strategic Management Department.

Photo’s below from the 1^st re-union in 2010

 

Photographs of the old Police Station at Bishop Auckland

Can anyone help out one of our readers, Gavin Bake, who is trying to locate photographs of the old Police station in Bishop Auckland, which was located in Bondgate and was demolished in the 1970's.

Gavin is hoping to compile a painting and needs some help with photographs.

If anybody has any photo’s or can help Gavin please email us at durhamnarpo@gmail.com and we will forward any replies to him. Hopefully we might be able to publish a copy of Gavin’s artwork in the future

Durham Peeler–Summer 2012

Chairman Alan Watson has once again been hard at work over the past few months putting together the latest edition of the Durham Peeler.
Click on the image to go to the Durham Peeler webpage where you can then click on the images of the Peeler and either read them online or download them to your own computer in pdf format
Members will shortly receive their printed editions through the letterbox.
If any of our readers has a story that you would like put into print, in the Durham Peeler then please email us on durhamnarpo@gmail.com and we will forward your details to the Editor – Alan Watson

Home Office Guidance on injury award reviews for those over 65 unlawful

Dear All,

Any member adversely affected by the use of the Home Office Circular and Guidance upon reaching 65 years or over should be receiving communication from their respective Forces within the next month. Anyone so affected who does not hear from their Force within a month should contact NARPO HQ.

His Honour MR JUSTICE SUPPERSTONE has ruled that there is no statutory basis in the Police [Injury Benefit] Regulations to support a different approach to a Regulation 37 review at different ages.

At Paragraph 42 of the decision MR JUSTICE SUPPERSTONE opined:

In my judgment, the appropriate relief to grant in the circumstances of this case is a declaration that the section in the Guidance headed “Review of Injury Pensions Once Officers Reach Age 65” and paragraph 20 of the Guidance on Medical Appeals are inconsistent with the Regulations and unlawful.  There is no justification for adopting a different approach to regulation 37(1) in respect of a former officer who reaches the age of 65 than in the case of a review for former officers of a younger age.

ERIC EVANS President of NARPO commented:

NARPO particularly welcome this recent decision by His Honour Justice Supperstone and now urgently calls on those Forces that have used the Home Office Circular and Guidance to callously and systematically reduce the injury pensions of those who have been injured serving their local communities, without any consideration of their individual circumstances or needs, to put right this wrong immediately. Those adversely affected have suffered for long enough and Forces should act quickly to put their minds at rest. NARPO will be monitoring Forces to ensure that the problem is rectified forthwith.

The full judgement is available on our website Injury Pensions page.

Regards               

Steve Edwards

Deputy Chief Executive

National Association Of Retired Police Officers

38 Bond Street

Wakefield

WF1 2QP

01924 331251

Death of a retired Police Officer - PC 576 Keith Rochester

It is with regret that we announce the death of retired PC 576 Keith Rochester from Durham,who died on the 10/03/2012 aged 78 years.
Mr Rochester retired from HQ in 1984 after 31 years service. He had previously served at Darlington, Billingham and Jarrow.

Death of a retired Police Officer - PC1232 Neil Donald Driver

It is with regret that we have to inform you of the death of retired PC 1232 Neil Donald Driver 65 years who died on 1st March, 2012 in James Cooke Hospital, Coronary Care unit.
Neil joined Durham County Constabulary in 1966, serving at Whickham, Darlington, Dog Section and Barnard Castle, before retiring after 26 years service on medical pension

Death of a retired Police Staff colleague - John Moore

It is with deep regret that we have to inform you of the death of a retired Police Staff colleague, John Moore,  who died 7th March 2012 in St.Cuthbert's Hospice, Durham, aged 73yrs
John spent all his working life with Durham Constabulary, initially as a Police Cadet and for many years thereafter he was a Police Support employee in Control Room/Communications and  later, Stores Manager.

Death of a retired Police Officer - PC 712 Henry (Harry) Wise

It is with regret that we have to announce the death of retired PC 712 Henry (Harry) Wise, who died at Aberdeen on the 28/02/2012 aged 71 years.

Unfortunately welfare do not have any service details on record for Harry, but it is known that he served at Ferryhill & Sedgefield Sections and prior to his retirement at Newton Aycliffe

RPI to CPI : E-Petition update

On the 9th September 2011 we posted an article in relation to an E-Petition in relation the the RPI to CPI change : http://www.durhamnarpo.com/2011/09/rpi-to-cpi-e-petition-to-view.html

The e-petition 'Public & Private Pension Increases - change from RPI to CPI' has recently reached 109,392 signatures and a response has been made to it.

“This e-petition has reached 100,000 signatures. The Government has notified the Backbench Business Committee in the House of Commons who will consider its suitability for debate when Parliament returns in September. This e-petition will remain live, and people will be able to continue adding their signatures. The Backbench Business Committee have announced that a debate relating to this e-petition will take place on Thursday 1 March 2012 in the Chamber of the House of Commons. Further information about the debate, and on the workings of the Backbench Business Committee, can be found on the Committee's website at http://www.parliament.uk/bbcom The Government will post a further response to this petition following the debate.”

View the response to the e-petition

Death of a retired Police Officer - DC1154 William Anthony (Tony) Kennedy

It is with regret that we have to inform you of the death of retired Detective Constable 1154 William Anthony (Tony) Kennedy, who died on the 24/02/2012 aged 53 years.
Mr Kennedy retired from Darlington CID in 2007 following 30 years service. During his service he served in various postings including Darlington & Barnard Castle (uniform), HQ Drug Squad and Darlington CID/Intelligence.

Death of a retired Police Officer - PC 951 Arthur Oldfield

It is with regret that we announce the death of retired PC 951 Arthur Oldfield from Bishop Auckland, who died on the 21/02/2012 aged 77 years.
Unfortunately we do not have any service details on record for Mr Oldfield.

Bishop Auckland, Castle Eden or ???????

We have an idea that this is probably Bishop Auckland or Castle Eden football team – year unknown.

Can anyone shine any facts on this quaint photograph please. In particular does anyone claim ownership of this photo?

Government Inspection Durham Constabulary H.Q. 1974 (Traffic Patrols North)

Government Inspection Durham Constabulary H.Q. 1974 (Traffic Patrols North)
Fred Purser; Norman Lee; Derek Sayers; Jack Blair; George Robson; ?; Ken Garbutt; John Curry; ? ; Ian Irwin; ?; Jack Fidiam;
? ; ? ; Fred English; Norman Davison; Bill Bramfitt; Eric Brown; ?; Eddie Stangroom; Duncan Adamson; Gordon Balderstone; John Knaggs; Bill Sanderson; ?;  Chris Dryden; Trevor Morgan; Geoff Carlon; Kenny James; Ronnie Tarn; Dick Hunter.

(Click on the image to view it bigger or to download it)

Cadet Training School 1973–Bede House

Many Thanks to Dick Barton of Northumbria for forwarding this picture from his Cadet Training days in Durham in the early 70’s.

The Five Cadet houses were made up of cadets from Durham, Northumbria, Cleveland, North Yorkshire & also some Junior Firemen.

Sgt Ray Clish & PC Alan Goad were in charge of Bede House and the Commandant of the the Cadets was Supt Ray Basham who had just replaced Supt Hugh Blenkin

Back Row - Bob Brown (Durham), John Davies (Cleveland), John Herron (Durham), Ian Snowball (Northumbria), Alan Ashman (Durham), Colin Pearson (Durham), Jeff Willis (Durham), Ian Sharp (Northumbria).

Middle Row - Harry Smith (Durham), Dave Collier (Cleveland), Dick Barton (Northumbria), Ian Bestford (Durham), Steve King (Northumbria), Jim Rowntree (Northumbria), Mick Forbes (Fire Brigade), Ian Aitchison (Durham)

Front Row - Mick Perks (Durham), Chris Catnach (Northumbria), PC Alan Goad (Durham), Sgt Ray Clish (Durham), Supt. Ray Basham (Durham), Harry Stephenson (Durham), Dickie Jane (Northumbria), Gordon Roberts (Northumbria), John Proud (North Yorks)

Death of a retired Police Officer - Arthur Stanley Terrington

It is with regret that we have to inform you of the death of a retired Police Officer Mr Arthur Stanley Terrington died on 7th February 2012, aged 81yrs.
Mr Terrington served from 1955-1983 and retired from Chester-le-Street.

Return VAT on Air Ambulance fuel payments.

Click on the image or the link below to sign this petition :

The Air Ambulance Service is forced to meet rising fuel prices year on year including VAT.

The Air Ambulance Service have saved successive governments millions and millions of pounds funded by charitable donations given by the general public to run what has proven to be an essential service.

Whilst the Lifeboat Service has been exempt from VAT on fuel costs since 1977, a similar privilege has not been afforded to the Air Ambulance Service; We call on the government to have an urgent review of this situation and in doing so We call on the government to return in the form of grants to Air Ambulance Service providers all the future VAT which the Treasury collects from them so that the Air Ambulance Service is in practice exempt from paying VAT in the same way as the Lifeboat Service.

Sign this petition

Hartlepool Divisional Football Team. Grayfields. 1949-50

 

Corner (Trainer); McCrae; Argyle; Myles Beautyman; Harry Bennett; McCormack; Ted Scott (Manager)

Bell; Harry Lockerbie; Tommy Nevins; Bill Greenhalgh; McEwan

Many Thanks to Jack Fidiam for providing this photo.

Durham County Police v Leicester

Back row:  Jack Fidiam; Eddy Bell; Billy Watt; Keith Maddison; Ivor Heard; Terry O’Connor; Barry Bell;  ?..... (G/head).
Front row:  Bobby Allon; Fred Taylor; John Wilson;  Ray Irwin; Ron Bell.
Many Thanks to Jack Fidiam for sending this photo – if you can ‘fill in’ the missing names please either leave a comment or email durhamnarpo@gmail.com with the details

Durham County Police v Leicester. Very early 1970s

Back row: Jack Fidiam; Jim Connolly; Barry Bell; John Wilson (S/land); B. Bowmaker (S’land); Eddy Bell; Terry O’Connor; Charlie Moore.

Fr.: Albert Scott; Fred Taylor; Ronnie Bell (S.Shields); Albert Johns; Dave Hills (S/land);  Bobby Allon; Jim Walton  (S. Shields)

Many Thanks to Jack Fidiam for providing this photo.

Kingston upon Hull Police v Durham County Constabulary : Hull Sports Ground 1934/34

Back row: ? Gregory; “Pop” Pedley; Joe Hepplewhite; Benny Wright; Frank Allen; Miles Beautyman; Ted Scott; Bob Scott; Bill Tempest.
Front  row: Jimmy Greaves; Supt. Headen; ???; Supt. Fred Foster; Supt. Moore; ??? ; Ron Allen
                  
Many Thanks to Jack Fidiam for this photo – if anybody can ‘fill in’ any of the missing names please leave a comment or email   durhamnarpo@gmail.com  with the details

Police Treatment Centres

The following message is circulated on behalf of the Police Treatment Centres :

Due to the current long waiting list at Harrogate anyone who is from Cleveland, Cumbria, Durham, Northumbria, or PSNI forces (or who lives within these geographical locations) will be allocated a place at AUCHTERARDER even if their preference is for treatment is at Harrogate.
 
With effect from Monday 6th February 2012 any application form received from the Durham force will be automatically allocated Auchterarder (subject to clinical assessment)
 
The Police Treatment Centre implemented this interim measure in June last year, and it proved to be successful in reducing waiting times for treatment, and enabling officers quicker access to treatment.
 
If there are unique and significant circumstances why an officer should be admitted to St. Andrews rather than Castlebrae they should submit these in writing (email accepted) either via Welfare with the application form or submissions can be made directly to the Centre.  Each case will be considered on an individual basis by the clinical and administrative teams.

Death of a retired Police Officer - PC Edward Simpson

It is with regret that we announce the death of retired officer ex-PC Edward SIMPSON of Richmond, North Yorkshire who died on Sunday 29th January 2012, aged 69 years, after a short illness.

Ex-PC Simpson retired on medical grounds on 6th April 1984.

AGM of Durham NARPO – Monday 19th March

Date for your Diary…….

Monday 19^th March at 1930hrs The Annual General Meeting of Durham NARPO, with guest speakers from Force Executive and Federation.
All members welcome to attend and participate
Ideal time to meet your old colleagues and friends.
(Please put the date in your diary and see if you can attend, meet your committee and see the hard work they are doing for you)
The meeting will be held at the Durham Indoor Bowling Centre, Pity Me, Durham, DH1 5GE



View Durham Indoor Bowling Club in a larger map

The 3rd Retirees Reunion and Social Afternoon spectacular - Sunday 20th May, 2012

Please book early!

The 3rd Retirees Reunion and Social Afternoon Spectacular - Sunday 20th May, 2012
Durham Constabulary H.Q.  Aykley Heads, Durham. 1.30pm to 5pm.

In view of two other important attractions  i.e. the Queen’s Jubilee and the Olympic Games in July, 2012, we have decided  to avoid divided loyalties in attending  the three very important events,  we have re scheduled our “curtain raiser”,  to the new date of Sunday, 20th May, 2012

Many of you will have already experienced this great social get together, organised as a joint event by Durham Constabulary and Durham N.A.R.P.O. Committee.
Just in case you haven’t heard about it, we invite ALL members of Durham Constabulary, police and police support staff both serving and retirees  past and present, to come along and enjoy a truly friendly and sociable afternoon. A great deal of planning by the Force Strategic Management team, the N.A.R.P.O. Committee members and a host of willing volunteers once again promises to make it an afternoon to remember. A number of you have in the past missed out, believing that you don’t know many people now, but here you have the opportunity to renew old acquaintances and friends. It is also an opportunity to socialise with serving officers and Staff who continue the proud traditions of Durham Constabulary.

We are concerned that many of our retired police staff personnel may not be aware (even now!) of the now annual social occasion. If you know any past employees, please share with them this information and give them the opportunity to share it too. 

There will be entertainment by the Durham Constabulary Band and Choir, demonstrations by the Dog Section and Motor Patrols, displays by Durham H.Q. Archives, N.A.R.P.O. Beamish Museum , the Blue Knights and more. 
Light refreshments will be provided (but please don’t expect a full meal – times is hard…!);  a superb raffle organised by N.A.R.P.O.; a souvenir programme and your own personal photograph to commemorate the occasion and best of all, the friendly atmosphere and “war stories” that only old friends can generate between each other. You’re only here once, so why not make the most of this joyous and friendly event.
Please Note:

• Admission is by ticket only for security purposes and also to gauge numbers for catering etc.
• Tickets are FREE. Remember -  No ticket – no entry!
• If lack of transport is a real problem, contact us – we MAY be able to help.

Avoid disappointment and order your ticket(s) early. Be there!

Retired Police Officers (non NARPO) and Retired Police Support staff, please order from:
Colin Appleby, 21, Lea Rigg, West Rainton, Houghton le String, DH4 6SR. Tel No. 0191 5846178.
Email: appleby.colin@btinternet.com

N.A.R.P.O Members including Widows, please order from:
Mrs. Angie Crawford, 8, Warwick Place, Peterlee, SR2 2EZ. Tel No. 01915180996. Email angiechilton@yahoo.com.

Serving Police Support Staff and Serving Officers please order from
Amanda Dodds or Amanda Wilson, Strategic Management Department.

Photo’s below from the 1^st re-union in 2010

 

RAMBLERS Organisation (U.K.) ( circulated via NARPO National Executive)

Love the fresh air? Enjoy being in the countryside and pulling on your boots to discover just what you have on your doorstep?

Ramblers have groups covering the entire U.K. , with a  like- minded membership of people who enjoy walking. Our groups have organised walks which can cater for all abilities. A three mile stroll or a full day adventure – the Ramblers will be able to help.

You can take part in any of the 38,000 organised and led walks. You will receive a quarterly glossy magazine “ Walk” (worth £3.80/ issue)

And you will qualify for a 20% discount off your first purchase at Cotswold Outdoor.

NARPO Members qualify for a 20% discount on  whole year membership fees.

Individual membership is only £24.80 ( usual cost £31.00) or £32.80 for a joint membership ( usual cost £41).

To take advantage of this great offer, visit www.ramblers.org.uk/join and quote code U12Y1W

For more information contact Sam Newby-Ricci on 07799 134 710 0r sam.newbyricci@ramblers.org.uk

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ramblers  and Twitter:  twitter.com/RamblersGB

Automatic Renewal of AXA Travel Insurance

This correspondence was received from NARPO Head Office and relates to members with AXA Travel Insurance obtained through NARPO
”Dear Colleague,
We will shortly be coming up to the renewal date for the above (1st May) and in an attempt to try and by-pass some of the problems we had at last automatic renewal I would ask if possible that you would consider including something in your next branch newsletter or however you communicate to your branch members.

This is a 2 fold exercise.

Firstly : It reminds those members not wishing to renew to cancel their Direct Debit Instruction with their bank, but they also need to inform this office (Alan Dockerty on 01924.331256) – if they do not follow this through the money will be automatically taken from the member on the 17th May and policy documents issued by AXA,

Secondly : Any member expecting to automatically renew needs to receive:

• A letter from this office which will confirm the new rate (this should be received early April)
• A new policy document from AXA (probably to be received around mid to late April

Without receipt of these two documents they are quite simply not on the automatic renew data file and they will not be covered for travel insurance, we had some members last year travelling abroad thinking they had been automatically renewed but had not received either of these documents – they were not covered.

Reminding members now, might just save problems as above but might also save the office time issuing refunds if they didn’t mean to stay in the scheme.
For information the new rates from 1st May 2012 to 30th April 2013 will be:
Single £120.00
Joint £165.00 (Includes single parent)
Family £175.00

The prices include the NARPO administration fee.”

Next Meeting of Durham NARPO–Monday 16th January

The next meeting of NARPO (Durham Branch) will be held at 7.30pm on Monday 16th January at Durham Indoor Bowling Centre.

Light buffet afterwards. All members or prospective members are invited to come along & enjoy

If you don't know where to go, Click On This Link and you'll see a map of the location and you can get driving directions to it.

Death of a retired Police Officer - Inspector Leslie (Les) Fawell

It is with regret that we announce the death of ex- Inspector Leslie(Les) Fawell of Arcadia Avenue, Chester-le-Street who died on 8th January 2012 aged 78 years.  

Mr Fawell retired from HQ Communications on 29th September 1983 and during his career served in various postings including Darlington, Jarrow,Cleadon, Brandon and Durham.

Copper Plate–January 2012 (Issue 85)

January 2012 edition of Copper Plate) can be viewed by clicking on the image.

You can view older editions of Copper Plate by clicking on the menu bar above or by CLICKING HERE