Tommy was appointed with Durham County Constabulary on 31stJuly 1972, his initial posting being Newton Aycliffe. He was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in 1981 and later qualified to the rank of Inspector, being interviewed for Bramshill Police College, due to his National Score standing.
His subsequent postings as a Sergeant were at Staindrop, Barnard Castle, Shildon and Newton Aycliffe, with significant periods as Acting Inspector. He retired from his post as Custody Sergeant at Newton Aycliffe on 12th July 2002.
During his service, Tommy received several commendations from successive Chief Constables and from H M Courts, notably for the attempted rescue of a drowning child and the disarming of a gunman, discharging a pistol in a public place.
He is survived by his wife Mary, children Julie, Stephen, Catherine, Helen and Marie, four sons-in-law and eighteen grandchildren.
A requiem funeral service is to be held at 10.30am Wednesday 9th September 2026 at St. Mary’s RC Church, Birch Road, Barnard Castle DL12 8NR, followed by a private local burial.
Family flowers only, donations in so desired to Aid to the Church in Need and St. Mary’s RC Church.
After the funeral, friends are invited to join the family at St. Mary’s Parish Hall, Newgate, Barnard Castle DL12 8NQ
Our thoughts are with Tommy’s family and friends at this sad time.