Mr Charlton is survived by his son Geoff, sister Grace, grandsons Daniel and Philip, three great grandchildren and other extended family. Alf was pre deceased by both his wife Joan, who died in 2019 and his daughter Gill, who died in 1996.
Alf joined Durham County Constabulary as a Cadet in March 1945. He was appointed as a Constable on 30th April 1949.
Throughout his long and varied Police career he had 14 different stations / departments / positions including:- Helicopter Observer, Sgt Instructor at Cadet Training, Research Dept, Sub Divisional Command at three stations & Deputy Divisional Command at two Stations. He was head of of Acc. Prevention 1963 to 1968, Motor School 1969 to 1972 & Traffic Dept. Operations Durham County including during the Miners Strike of 1984.
In 1956 he was awarded the Queens Commendation for brave conduct. He was Commended three times by the Chief Constable and once by the Magistrates.
In 1983 Alf was the Chairman of the Superintendents Association Durham County. He was also the National Chairman of the Federation of British Police Motor Clubs for many years.
Alf retired from Durham Police as Chief Superintendent on 30th April 1984.
During his 41 years of retirement his expertise was globally acknowledged and he travelled far and wide to pass on his knowledge.
Alf's funeral service is to take place at 10am on Wednesday 30th July at Durham Crematorium.
The service is not private. Family flowers only please. Any donations in lieu of floral tributes may be deposited on leaving the Crematorium.
The family wish for the donations to be given in Alf's memory to Cancer Research UK and Safe Lives.
