Understanding the future of Police Pensions. N.A.R.P.O. update & views

THE BUDGET AND POLICE PENSION INCREASES


As a result of numerous enquiries at Head Office following the Chancellors Emergency Budget last week I thought it prudent to update you on our current understanding of the implications of the budget on Police Pension increases.
Police Pensions are increased under the provisions of the Pensions (Increase) Act 1971 and Section 59 of the Social Security Pensions Act 1975. The latter provides for public service pensions to be up-rated at the same time and by the same percentage as the increase in the additional pension provided under the State Earnings Related Pension Scheme (SERPS), which has traditionally been based on the September to September increase in the Retail Price Index (RPI).
In the Emergency Budget the Chancellor announced that the Government will use the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for the indexation of benefits and tax credits from April 2011, but more significantly for police pensioners, the Chancellor also announced that the change would also apply to public service pensions through the statutory link to the indexation of the Second State Pension (which replaced SERPS in 2002).

What does this mean to police pensions?

In our view this means that in April 2011 police pensions will increase by the same percentage as the RPI increase from September 2009 to September 2010.
Thereafter the indication from this budget is that police pensions will increase annually in April by the same percentage as the CPI increase from September to September.
This in real terms reduces the value of police pension increases as the RPI is generally higher than the CPI and when calculated over a period of over 20 years would amount to a significant amount of money.
We are currently discussing with other public sector pensioner organisations the full implications of the emergency budget and are considering a response and any future course of action we may consider taking, bearing in mind the assurances given in April 2010 by all three major political parties, that there were no plans to change the current index-linking of pensions in payment.

The Garden Party

Hi Alan
Firstly can I offer my congratulations to you, your Committee, Durham Executive, volunteers and all who gave up their time to make the reunion so memorable. Mine was a flying visit from Cyprus as you know, but I'm so glad I made it. To see and chat to so many people from the past was great. Shame the weather was inclement but it didn't spoil the day. On a bit of a downside Alan I was somewhat disappointed that so many of our peers from the early sixties to the late nineties didn't turn up. Given the success of your occasion, is there anything you and your colleagues think can be done to encourage their attendance next time around - I'm sure it was their loss and not ours. Brilliant day and thanks to all those who put in the effort to make it a success. Your efforts in updating the 'blog' with all the photos etc must take you well into the night !! I'm still commiserating with the Military community here over our PATHETIC performances in South Africa - my annual pension doesn't even equate to one weeks wages for most of them. Prima Donnas - go home in shame !! You and your colleagues efforts would eclipse theirs. Well done all.

Kind regards,
Robin & Margaret Dodd


Thanks very much Robin and Margaret - delighted you made such a Herculean effort to fly across to meet old friends. Perhaps those who 'couldn't be bothered' were the ones who missed out? Next year maybe we may get a lot more support? The Garden Party I mean not our " Prima Donnas"... I believe that England are to get a new dual management team imported from China - names? "We Won Once" and " How Long Since". I'll never watch them again - after all they didn't come to see me when I was bad.....!

Alan Watson

Further praise for the Garden Party

Dear Alan

Many thanks to you and all involved in the organisation of the Party which Maureen and I thoroughly enjoyed. It was so good to re-visit the familiar Headquarters and to meet the serving officers and old friends and colleagues.
What a good idea to wear our name tags to remind us of who we are and who "what's ' is/'er name is!
Three hours passed far too quickly. The choir and the band were excellent. I have many happy memories of the band in the '70s when I marched in front at the many public performances of those years. Not having had time due to gossiping so much ( I think we occupied the same bit of floor all afternoon) to see much of the exhibits or even buy a raffle ticket....

yours sincerely,


Maureen and Dave (Cromarty (Senior))


WE ACKNOWLEDGE A FURTHER DOZEN SIMILAR LETTERS OF APPRECIATION (also many telephone messages) RECEIVED Thank you one and all for making it such a great day.

Make a note in your diary for our N.A.R.P.O. Re-Union Luncheon on Sunday, 26th September, 2010. Full details in your copy of the Durham Peeler - or contact Barry & Angie Crawford Tel. No. 0191 5180996

Thoughts on the Spectacularly Successful Garden Party 13th June, 2010

This was the showcase of the new relationship between Durham Constabulary and its many retired employees both police and support staff. We had retired officers and staff from as far afield as Cyprus, Scotland, Gloucester, Oxford (Retired Chief Constable George Hedges - a keen supporter of the Force and in particular, our Durham Branch N.A.R.P.O) and many others too many to mention. Remember this is just a new beginning. Look out for even greater things.

Thanks must be given for the extensive hard work and close cooperation between leading members of the Durham N.A.R.P.O. Committee and Durham Constabulary's Planning Team/ Corporate Communications Officers. The 'coming together' was made possible by the dynamic organisational skills afforded through Chief Constable Jon Stoddart and Deputy Chief Constable Mike Barton- who pledged themselves to show that we truly are a 'family Force' once again. The holistic exercise was a demonstration of what can be achieved if all parties are really committed.

' Well done everyone' on behalf of all retired members and serving officers (both on and off duty) who were privileged to share in such a wonderful day. With grateful thanks to all actively involved in making the day so memorable.



Alan S. Watson Chairman Durham Branch N.A.R.P.O.

Some photo's from the Garden Party

Click on any of the images shown below to go to the album. If you have any photo's from the day please can you help us out and send us them to : durhamnarpo@gmail.com

Update on Jeff Miller

We told you in May that retired PC 431 Jeff Miller had been rushed to Newcastle General hospital after suffering brain hemorrhage. (http://durhamnarpo.blogspot.com/2010/05/hospital-visits-jeff-miller.html)
We're pleased to report that Jeff has been discharged from hospital and is now recovering at home under the watchfull eye of his wife Eunice. They would welcome a call or visit to help Jeff along with his rehabilitation. If you want to get a hold of Jeff's number or address email durhamnarpo@gmail.com and we will get back to you with the details

Mayonnaise Jar & Two Beers..

When things in your life seem almost too much to handle, when 24 hours in a day are not enough, remember the mayonnaise jar and the 2 Beers.

A professor stood before his philosophy class and had some items in front of him..
When the class began, he wordlessly picked up a very large and empty mayonnaise jar and proceeded to fill it with golf balls.
He then asked the students if the jar was full.
They agreed that it was.

The professor then picked up a box of pebbles and poured them into the jar He shook the jar lightly.
The pebbles rolled into the open areas between the golf balls.
He then asked the students again if the jar was full.
They agreed it was.

The professor next picked up a box of sand and poured it into the jar.
Of course, the sand filled up everything else.
He asked once more if the jar was full.
The students responded with a unanimous 'yes.'

The professor then produced two Beers from under the table and poured the entire contents into the jar effectively filling the empty space between the sand.
The students laughed..

'Now,' said the professor as the laughter subsided, 'I want you to recognize that this jar represents your life.
The golf balls are the important things---your family, your children, your health, your friends and your favorite passions---and if everything else was lost and only they remained, your life would still be full.
The pebbles are the other things that matter like your job, your house and your car.
The sand is everything else---the small stuff.
'If you put the sand into the jar first,' he continued, 'there is no room for the pebbles or the golf balls.
The same goes for life.
If you spend all your time and energy on the small stuff you will never have room for the things that are important to you..
Pay attention to the things that are critical to your happiness.

Spend time with your children.
Spend time with your parents.
Visit with grandparents.
Take time to get medical checkups.
Take your spouse out to dinner.
There will always be time to clean the house and fix the disposal.
Take care of the golf balls first---the things that really matter.
Set your priorities.
The rest is just sand.
One of the students raised her hand and inquired what the Beer represented.
The professor smiled and said, 'I'm glad you asked.'
The Beer just shows you that no matter how full your life may seem, there's always room for a couple of Beers with a friend. (Next NARPO meeting - 12th July !!)
Please share this with someone you care about. WE JUST DID!

Death of a retired Police Officer - PC 480 Robert Bristowe Bennett

It is with regret that we announce the death of ex PC 480 Robert Bristowe Bennett of Wigtownshire, Scotland. Mr Bennett died on the 10th May 2010 aged 89 years.
Ex PC Bennett retired from Sunderland in 1973 following 26 years service. He had previously served at Washington, Sedgefield, Jarrow, Seaham and Castletown.

Death of Retired NARPO member (Gateshead Branch)

I have been informed by Bill Hardman (ex Durham police officer in the mid 1960s) of the  the death of his father, Colin Bowes Hardman who died on 31st May, 2010 aged 85 years.

Colin Hardman was a Chief Inspector in Gateshead Borough, transferring to Durham Conmstabulary in 1968 with the incorporation of the Borough Forces  and serving thereafter as Superintendent at Whickham. In 1974, he became a Northumbrian officer and served as Chief Superintendent at South Shields.

For information only: William(Bill) Hardman  joined Durham Constabulary in 1965 , transferring on promotion to Sergeant in 1973 to Hertfordshire. He went on to retire as Superintendent in 1995

Garden Party - a 'big' success...

The Garden Party took place on Sunday 13th June, as a result of the hard work put in by members of Durham NARPO's committee (shown above)  and was a resounding success.

After opening addresses by Chief Constable Jon Stoddart and NARPO Chairman, Alan Watson, the guests were treated to entertainment from the Constabulary choir & band, together with displays from the dog section, firearms unit and motorcycle section. There were many static displays to look at and some excellent food. A great afternoon's entertainment with a real 'family' feel to it, giving everybody the chance to  'catch up' with old friends and colleagues.

All the current Durham Executive, Heads of departments and members of the Police Committee,  were in attendance together with retired Chief Constable George Hedges, who returned 'home' from Oxford to Durham for the day....

 Ray Basham made the long journey from Scotland, Robin Dodd from Cyprus and Gordon Bacon even got his feet back on home soil, to be at the event.

Photo's will be uploaded onto the site soon, but the burning question most of us will want to know is, what is the date of next years event  ?? (please)
PS : and a little bit of sunshine /dry weather on the day as well :-)

Have you checked your driving licence lately? IMPORTANT reminder

Renewing Your Photo Driving Licence every 10 years

If you didn`t know that you need to renew your photo card driving licence after 10 years, then you may well be one of the 40,000 drivers across the UK who are breaking the law-many of whom are doing so unwittingly.
Many motorists believe that their photo card licence-like the old style green paper licences-are valid right up until they turn 70 years of age. In actual fact they expire after a 10 year period. The reason this has come to light recently is because the photo cards were first introduced in 1998, and so 2008 saw the first ten year expiry dates come up and catch thousands of drivers out. Since July 2008, around 170,000 UK licences have expired and by the end of January 2009, more than a quarter of those motorists who are due to renew their licences with the DVLA, hadn`t done so.
Qualified drivers are still entitled to drive a vehicle if their photo card licence has expired, but what they must be aware of is that they could be charged with the offence of failing to renew their photo card licence. If the matter went to court you could end up with a £1000 fine.
Implications on your vehicle insurance if you are fully comprehensive
You may find that if your photo card licence has expired, then your insurance company will refuse to pay up for any claims you make. If this happens, you will be able to appeal, and if your photo card licence is being processed (i.e. you’ve actually applied for renewal) you will usually be ok. However this decision will be down to the insurance company themselves and what their individual policies are for this type of situation. However if you were involved in an accident you will still be covered for third party claims, regardless of whether your photo card licence was still in date.
A check with the Force insurers has confirmed that the insurance cover provided to all police staff whilst driving police vehicles under such circumstances would not be effected.
Please take the time to check the expiry date of your photo card driving licence, and if it is out of date renew it now to avoid inadvertently falling foul of the law and potentially jeopardising the status of your personal vehicle insurance!!
Your expiry date is to be found at section 4b on the front of the photo card licence.
DVLA should send you out a renewal pack a couple of months before the expiry of you photo card licence-so if they do, complete it and send it off to DVLA. Be careful not to disregard or discard this as `junk` mail. If you don`t receive a renewal pack, get a D1 form from the post office or from the DVLA online form ordering services.
To renew the photo card licence will cost you £20.

Death of a retired Police Officer - DC 538 Peter A Eddy

It is with deep sadness that we must inform you of the death of former DC 538 Peter A EDDY who died on 5th June 2010 aged 49 years.

Peter was appointed to Durham Constabulary on 18th May 1981 and served at Durham Darlington and Wear Valley, joining CID in 1985. 

He went on to serve at Darlington CID, Drug Squad and at HQ CID (Intelligence).  He retired medically, from HQ CID Economic Crime Unit on 11th March 2010.

Golfing Offer : NARPO members

A colleague of mine recently attended a conference and had a conversation with a delegate from the NARPO organisation. It was mentioned that golf days play a big part within various regions throughout the year. Historically St Mellion have always supported the services in this area and we would like this to continue. I have two discount offers for golf at St Mellion that may be of interest to golfers within your branch.
If you would like further information on these please contact me, either by email or phone and I would be happy to discuss this further.
Kind regards
Tom Francis
Golf Days Advisor
Tel: 01579 352072
Fax: 01579 352046
http://www.st-mellion.co.uk/

St. Mellion International Resort - Home of The English Open

Reunion Party 13th June, 2010. - Almost There !!!

Reunion Garden Party Sunday, 13th June, 2010.
Programme of Events
Just in case you've been on another planet in recent weeks, please note that the first, all new Reunion Garden Party jointly organised by Durham Constabulary and the Durham Branch of the National Association of Police Officers ( N.A.R.P.O.) will be held at Durham Police H.Q. Aykley Heads on Sunday, 13th June, 2010. 2pm - 5pm
N.B. Admission strictly by ticket only (FREE but applied for in advance)

Programme of events :-

2.00pm. : Reception .Glass of Cava & Strawberries.
2.15pm : Welcome address by Chief Constable Jon Stoddart and NARPO Chairman, Alan Watson
2.30pm : Durham Constabulary Male Voice Choir.
3.00pm : Dog Display
3.30pm : Durham Constabulary Male Voice Choir.
4.00pm : Durham Constabulary Brass Band.
4.45pm : Raffle and Closing Speeches
5.00pm : Event Close
High Tea will be served in the canteen throughout the event.
Individual photographs will be taken upon arrival and at the end of the event you will be able to collect your own personal photo  from a board as your own personal momento before leaving.

Static Displays on site:-
Magenta  - Motor bike Section
Car Park  - A.N.P.R. Demonstration
Gun Car
Canteen  - Beamish Museum Exhibition
North east Historical Society Exhibition
Durham Constabulary Archive Display
Entrance to Canteen  - Durham Constabulary
Durham Police Authority
N.A.R.P.O.
P.M.A.S. & Roland Smith Insurance Displays.

Please feel free to view these displays at your leisure throughout the afternoon.
Remember, this has been very carefully planned to ensure a great afternoon out for you, your family & friends, where you can meet up with past friends and colleagues too.
Be sure to obtain your ticket in advance from :
Angie Crawford (NARPO) Welfare Officer. Tel. 0191 5180996;
Colin Appleby (NARPO Treasurer) Tel. 0191 5846178;
Jayne Swinburne Tel. 01913752273;
Amanda Dodds 01913752276 or
Anna Malkin 01913752071
Can you afford to miss it? Be there.

Death of a retired Police Officer - D/Sgt 1358 Steven Kitching

It is with regret that we announce the death of ex-D/Sgt 1358 Mr Steven Kitching of Shotton Colliery who died on 30th May 2010 aged 53 years. Mr Kitching leaves four children Emma, Stephen, Adam and Nick.
Mr Kitching served with the Royal Marines before joining Durham Constabulary in 1978. He retired from Durham City in 2007 having also served at Consett, Darlington, Spennymoor, HQ CID, Easington, Regional Crime Squad and Chester-le-Street.

Death of a retired Police Officer - P.C. 584 Mr William Terence Callaghan

It is with regret that we announce the death of ex P.C. 584 Mr William Terence Callaghan of Chester-le-Street who died on 24th May 2010 aged 76 years.
Mr Callaghan joined the Constabulary in 1955 and retired from Chester-le-Street in 1982, having previously served at Consett, Ryhope Colliery, Bishop Auckland and HQ.

Death of a retired Police Officer - Sgt 1386 Allen George McGranaghan

It is with regret that we announce the death of retired Sgt 1386 Allen George McGranaghan who died on 19th May 2010 aged 70 years.
Mr McGranaghan retired from HQ Comms in 1995 following 33 years service. He had previously served at Darlington, Durham, Croxdale and Meadowfield.

Death of retired Police Officer - Sgt 344 Edward Gordon English

It is with regret that we announce the death of retired Sgt 344 Edward Gordon English from Durham, who died on the 18/05/10 aged 83 years.
Mr English retired from HQ in 1983 following 30 years service. He had previously served at Hartlepool, T & C, Blaydon, Dunston Hill, Cyprus, Darlington and Eastbourne.

Death of a retired Police Officer - Sgt 2312 John Frederick Wood

It is with regret that we announce the death of retired Sgt 2312 John Frederick Wood, who died on 15/05/2010 aged 64 years.
Mr Wood retired from Chester-le-Street in 1997 following 28 years service. He had previously served at Durham, Consett, Wolsingham, Wear Valley and HQ traffic.

Photo's from the CG Spring Lunch

Photo's by Cynthia Angus from the CG Spring Lunch, held at Durham Indoor Bowling Centre on Sunday 9th May 2010. Cynthia said "Previously the photographs have been in The Peeler,but I am delighted that they can have instant circulation on the Narpo Blog."
To view the photo's and leave comments on them, doubleclick on the album below

Copper Plate - April 2010

Here is the latest edition of Copper Plate : Click on the image below to download a pdf version :

Hospital Visits - Jeff Miller

NARPO member, Jeff Miller (ex PC 431 Traffic) recently (2nd April) suffered a brain hemorrhage and was rushed to Newcastle General where he underwent emergency surgery.
Jeff has subsequentley been transferred for rehabilitation to Ward 17 of Bishop Auckland General Hospital.
I have spoken to Jeff's wife Eunice and she would be glad if anybody who know's Jeff could drop in and spend a few minute's with him.
Visiting is all day but if you could avoid meals times it would be appreciatted.
Jeff is suffering from short term memory loss and Eunice has a book in the room where you can write down your name etc so that she can talk to Jeff about your visit to help with his rehabilitation (long term memory is excellent)
So... if you're over in the Bishop area and have a few minute's to spare (and help out a fellow NARPO member) then call in and give Jeff a visit and 'catch up' on old times etc...
(Please pass this on to any of your friends who might have worked with Jeff)

Another Italian Job !!

I wish we'd had patrol cars like that in Durham !!

Death of retired Police Officer - Ch/Inspector John Gordon Brown

Ch/Inspector John Gordon Brown, from Chester-le-Street, died on 21/04/10 aged 76 years.
Mr Brown retired from Aycliffe in 1988 following 34 years service having previously served at HQ, Chester-le-Street, Birtley, Traffic Patrols, C.I.D, Darlington, Crook, South Durham, Silksworth, Sunderland, C.I.D Drug Squad and HQ Comms.

Death of retired Police Officer - Ch/Inspector Neville Johnson

Ex. Ch/Inspector Neville Johnson, who died on 25/04/10, aged 82 years. He retired from Chester-le-Street in 1982 following 34 years service. He previously served at HQ, Thornley, Bishop Auckland, Wingate, Edenhill, Peterlee, Castle Eden, Butterknowle, Cockfield, Tow Law, W. Hartlepool, Tudhoe, Spennymoor, T & C Control Room, Durham, Peterlee; HQ Comms.

New Members

Durham NARPO extends a warm welcome to the following new members :

Gillian Linda Airey
Alan Briggs
Wendy Aspey
Malcolm Pugh
Thomas Coates
Robert Gadd
David MG Davies
James Fiddaman
David Surtees
Camelia Prendergast
Ian Doran
David Cromarty
Brian Ruddick

Death of a retired Police Officer - Sgt Harry Jacobs

Retired Sgt Harry Jacobs of Perthshire, Scotland. Mr Jacobs died on the 14th April 2010 aged 86 years.
Mr Jacobs retired from Newton Aycliffe CID in 1976 following 28 years service. He had previously served at West Hartlepool, Belle Vue, Ushaw Moor, HQ CID, Darlington, Roseworth and Peterlee.

The Durham Constabulary & Durham Branch of N.A.R.P.O. present the All New Reunion Garden Party

NEW REUNION GARDEN PARTY  

Durham Constabulary H.Q., Aykley Heads

Sunday, 13th June, 2010 2pm - 5pm.  The event is admission by TICKET ONLY ! 

 Tickets are FREE of charge BUT you must have your ticket with you on the day

(Tickets are for security and to organise catering and seating arrangements)

Don't leave it till the last minute be sure to apply for your ticket(s) NOW  to:-

Mrs. Angie Crawford Tel. No. 01915180996
email :  barrychiltoncrawford@yahoo.co.uk
Mr   Colin Appleby     Tel. No. 01915846178
email : appleby.colin@btinternet.com
Ms.  Jayne Swinburn   Tel. No. 0191 375 2273 
email : jayne.swinburne@durham.pnn.police.uk

This is the first joint social venture the service in this County has seen. 
A Disabled person's chairlift will be  installed to assist those who cannot climb stairs to the Dining Area
We want to make this a great success and an annual even to bring together the " New and the Old"
An afternoon of fun and entertainment - meet old friends and make new friends too. High Tea !
 So make sure you are there ( with your ticket! ) to enjoy a great day out.       


More information in the summer edition of the Durham Peeler - (due out mid May)  and the next issue of the Copperplate.

Don't forget No Ticket
No Admission!

Oh yes, did I mention it? Tickets are FREE!

Death of a retired Police Officer - Inspector 125 Derrick Richardson

 Ex-Inspector 125 Derrick RICHARDSON died on 13th April 2010 aged 83 years. He joined Durham Constabulary on 4th November 1950 and retired on 31st August 1981having served at Stockton, Bishopton, Oxbridge, HQ Welfare, Cadet Training, Southmoor, Chester-le-Street, Seaham, HQ Communications and Seaham.

England My England

Goodbye to my England, so long my old friend
Your days are numbered, to be brought to an end
To be Scottish, Irish or Welsh
that’s trendy - that's fine
But don't say you're English,
that’s naughty, that's way out of line.
The French and the Germans may call themselves such
So may Norwegians, the Swedes and the Dutch
You can say you are Russian or maybe a Dane
But don't say you're English , no never again.
At Broadcasting House the word is strictly taboo
In Brussels it's scrapped and in Parliament too
Schools are affected - staff do as they're told
Do not teach children about proud England of old.
Writers like Shakespeare, Milton and Shaw
Pupils don't learn about them - never - no more...
How about Agincourt, Hastings, Arnhem or Mons?
England, sadly has always lost hosts of very brave sons.
We are not Europeans- we are English !
So how can we be? Europe is miles away
(thank goodness) -far over the sea
We're the English from England,
Of that let's justly be proud
Stand up everyone and be counted
Go on shout it out loud!
Let's tell our Scots run Government
the Brussels rich beaurocrats too
We are fiercely proud of our heritage
Remember the red, white and blue?
Fly the flag of Saint George proudly 
 and perhaps more often, the Union Jack
Let the world know -
WE WANT OUR ENGLAND BACK !

And you can do it by voting sensibly on 6th. May 2010.
"God bless us all" said Tiny Tim (Christmas Carol. Dickens)

Death of a retired Police Officer - PC1245 Robert Thubron (Bob) RENNISON

Former PC 1245 Robert Thubron (Bob) RENNISON died suddenly on 7th April 2010 at home in Chester-le-Street, aged 75 years. Bob served with Durham Constabulary from 4th July 1955 until 20th September 1984.

Death of a retired Police Officer - Chief Inspector John George (Jack) Blair

It is with deepest sadness that we have to notify you of the death of former Chief Inspector John George (Jack) Blair who died yesterday.

Jack joined Durham Constabulary 29.03.1947 and served at Sunderland, T & C and Motor Patrols based at Meadowfield and North section.
Jack retired with the rank of Chief Inspector on 31.12.1976

Cadets at Durham Cathedral...

Who are the Police Cadets at Durham Cathedral ??
If you recognize yourself or anyone who is in the picture please let us know by leaving a comment or emailing : durhamnarpo@gmail.com
(Doubleclick on the photo to make it larger)

Who is the mystery biker ??

Who is this in the photo ??
Please leave a comment if you know.... or email : durhamnarpo@gmail.com
Doubleclick on the photo to make it larger

Next meeting of Durham NARPO - Monday 10th May

Date for your diary.... The next meeting of Durham NARPO will take place at 1930 hrs on Monday 10th May 2010 at Bishop Auckland Hospital Club.

Death of retired Police Officer - James Beaston (‘Ben’) GAUDEN

 Retired officer James Beaston (‘Ben’) GAUDEN who died on Friday 26th March 2010 aged 86 years. .

Death of a retired Police Officer - Sgt 29 Samuel Shepherd

Ex Sgt 29 Samuel Shepherd of Queensland, Australia died on the 12th March aged 95 years. He served with South Shields Borough from 1935 until 1965.

Death of a retired Police Officer - PC 847 Austin Johnson

Retired PC 00847 Mr Austin Johnson, died on 19/03/10 aged 86 years. Mr Johnson retired from HQ CID in 1977 following 26 years service having previously served at HQ, Bishop Auckland, Haverton Hill, Stockton and Darlington.

Policewomen's dept 1960's.....

W/HMI Inspection of Policewomen's Department mid to late 1960s?
photo courtesy Tom Muir

"Good Boy". C.C. Alec Muir presenting trophy to Dog Handlers

C.C. Alec Muir presenting trophy to Dog Handlers. Jack Topping; Eddie Simpson in photo - who are the others? Photo courtesy Tom Muir

From Harry Angus : The officer receiving the cup I think is Bob Richardson (when young....)

Death of ex Sergeant Alan Jones

It is with regret that I announce the death of ex Sgt Alan Jones of Newton Hall, Durham.  Mr Jones died on the 27th February 2010 aged 80 years.  He leaves a widow, Constance.

He served as a regular member of the NARPO Committee for a number of years.

Death of a retired Police Officer - PC 00508 Norman Cuerdon

It is with regret that we announce the death of retired PC 00508 Norman Cuerden, from Peterlee, who died on 27/02/10 aged 74 years.

Mr Cuerden retired from HQ, Operations Department in 1987 following 30 years service.
He had previously served at Darlington, Blaydon, HQ Traffic, HQ Motor Patrols and Peterlee.

This Could Never Happen in Britain - could it???

Darlington Division Cricket Team 1977. Winners of Great Aycliffe Town Cricket Knockout Cup

 
Police : 106 for 6 wickets. U.M.M. Newton Aycliffe: 68 for 8 wickets.
(back) Umpire (?); David Waterfall Brown; Adrian? ; Gerry Smith; Geoff Whittingham; Frank Hills; Ray Clish; Umpire (?)
(front) Ian Bestford; Dave Lee; Tommy Firth (Manager); Dave Carroll; Chris Jordison; Bill Hills 

IPA Diamond Jubilee. 4 Peak Hillwalk Sunday, 12th September, 2010

This year is the 60th Anniversary of formation of I.P.A..   I have been drafted onto the National office, to assist in the organization of various events throughout the year. 
I have been drafted to help organize events throughout the year. One such event may be of interest to your readers. The 4 Peak Hillwalks is scheduled to take place on Sunday, 12th September, 2010.
The 4 Peaks are: Slieve-Donard (Northern Ireland), Snowdon (Wales), Ben Nevis (Scotland) and Scafell Pike, (Cumbria).   This is not a challenge but a walk and talk.  

I am the IPA coordinator for Scafell Pike and other coordinators will cover the other mountains. We will select a time and the four peak walkers will leave their respective bases at the same time. More details later ( watch this space and the Durham Peeler magazine).

We each have an IPA email address and anyone interested in making one of these walks, should email that co-ordinator so we can record as to how many walkers there will be on the 12th September. 

Slieve-donart@ipa.uk.org.

snowdon@ipa.uk.org.

scafell-pike@ipa.uk.org.

ben-nevis@ipa.uk.org.

Gary Waine

A/Sgt Ernie Burden introduces Neville to Cadet Frank Hills. Mounted Branch 1959

First Aid Teams in the 1960s. photos courtesy Tom Muir (son of Alec Muir ex CC)

First Aid Teams in the 1960s. photos courtesy Tom Muir (son of Alec Muir ex CC)I think these photographs will bring back memories for many of you?

CopperPlate - February 2010

Double Click on this link to view the December 2009 edition of CopperPlate......

"TheWrinklies" in Snow-wonderland

The first group activity of the "Over the Hill Gang". 30th December 2009 doing an " easy" walk in tough conditions in Simonside/Rothbury area, Northumberland.

John Bell, Tim Wilson, Ian "Matty" Knight,Colin Appleby and Steve Heiniger (all ex Durham) plus Phil Veitch (Cleveland)

 Angus McGarry, Jim Cowan and Steve Heseltine all Northumbria Mountain Rescue colleagues of Steve Heiniger.

Further walks being planned for 2010

Battlefield walks

Castles walks

Reiver historical walks

Roman historical walks

The newly formed group plan to participate in pleasant walks (approximately monthly) in pleasant company

Anyone genuinely wishing to participate or learn more about the activities should contact the organizers by email:-

Steve Heiniger  sgh13@live.co.uk

Tim Wilson  wils1376@yahoo.co.uk

Colin Appleby  appleby.colin@btinternet.com

Police Women's Department Aycliffe Headquarters

kindly provided by Tom Muir, son of the late Chief Constable, Alec Muir.
 I wonder how many of you can remember some of the personalities in this group photo.
 No prizes for recognising Miss Findlay...Those were the days?

So you reckon you never forget a face

When you have a moment, thought you’d like this one!
'So you reckon you never forget a face.'

Here's a chance to prove it.

I was almost recognising what I had seen but I didn't handle the second part of the memory test so well. I.e. Where I had seen them.

What about you?

This test will determine if you're getting enough sleep or if your mind has really lost it! The test consists of three parts:

You'll be shown 12 photos in the first part,

You'll be shown another 12 photos in the second part,

You'll be shown 48 photos in the third part and asked if you saw them in the first part, the second part - or never saw them at all..

When you have finished the third part, your results will be given to you.

Click HERE to begin.

Durham Peeler - Winter 2009

Double click on the image of the magazine to view (& from there you can download a copy as well)

Enjoy the ride as there is no return ticket.....

George Carlin's Views on Ageing
Do you realize that the only time in our lives when we like to get old is when we're kids? If you're less than 10 years old, you're so excited about aging that you think in fractions.
'How old are you?' 'I'm four and a half!' You're never thirty-six and a half. You're four and a half, going on five! That's the key.

You get into your teens, now they can't hold you back. You jump to the next number, or even a few ahead.
'How old are you?' 'I'm gonna be 16!' You could be 13, but hey, you're gonna be 16!

And then the greatest day of your life! You become 21. Even the words sound like a ceremony. YESSSS!!

But then you turn 30. Oooohh! what happened there? Makes you sound like bad milk! He TURNED; we had to throw him out. There's no fun now, you're just a sour-dumpling.

What's wrong? What's changed?

You BECOME 21, you TURN 30, then you're PUSHING 40. Whoa! Put on the brakes, it's all slipping away. Before you know it, you REACH 50, and your dreams are gone..........!!

But! wait!! ! You MAKE it to 60 --- You didn't think you would!!

So, you BECOME 21 -- TURN 30 -- PUSH 40 -- REACH 50, and make it to 60.

You've built up so much speed that you HIT 70! After that, it's a day-by-day thing -- you HIT Wednesday!

You get into your 80's, and every day is a complete cycle; you HIT lunch; you TURN 4:30; you REACH bedtime. And it doesn't end there. Into the 90s, you start going backwards -- 'I Was JUST 92.'

Then a strange thing happens. If you make it over 100, you become a little kid again -- "I'm 100 and a half!"
May you all make it to a healthy 100 and a half!!

HOW TO STAY YOUNG

1. Throw out nonessential numbers. This includes age -- weight and height -- let the doctors worry about them -- that is why you pay them!!

2. Keep only cheerful friends -- the grouches pull you down!!

3. Keep learning -- learn more about the computer -- crafts -- gardening -- whatever -- even ham radio!! Never let the brain idle. 'An idle mind is the devil's workshop' -- the devil's family name is Alzheimer's!!

4. Enjoy the simple things.

5. Laugh often, long and loud. Laugh until you gasp for breath.

6. The tears happen. Endure, grieve, and move on. The only person, who is with us our entire life, is ourselves Be ALIVE while you are alive.

7. Surround yourself with what you love, whether it's family, pets, keepsakes, music, plants, hobbies, whatever. Your home is your refuge.

8. Cherish your health: If it is good, preserve it. If it is unstable, improve it. If it is beyond what you can improve, get help.

9. Don't take guilt trips. Take a trip to the mall, even to the next county; to a foreign country, but NOT to where the guilt is.

10. Tell the people you love that you love them, at every opportunity. ALWAYS REMEMBER -Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take -- but by the moments that take our breath away!!

Life's journey is not to arrive at the grave safely, in a well preserved body,
but rather to skid in sideways,totally used up and worn out, shouting
"Man, what a ride!!"

Durham Peeler - Summer 2009

Double click on the image of the magazine to view (& from there you can download a copy as well)

Durham County Constabulary's first Prison Van. LANCIA 1928. Reg. XG4

P.C. 504 Collinson. One of the few authorised drivers.

because of its notorious handling "qualities"

Look out for the first of a series of articles on the Durham County Motor Patrols

 June, 2010 issue of The Durham Peeler

Your Life In Their Hands... Durham Cadets circa 1960 First Aid Training.

Just When You Think the World Isn't Fair...

In 1986, Peter Davies was on holiday in Kenya after graduating from Northwestern University.
On a hike through the bush, he came across a young bull elephant standing with one leg raised in the air. The elephant seemed distressed, so Peter approached it very carefully.

He got down on one knee and inspected the elephant's foot and found a large piece of wood deeply embedded in it. As carefully and as gently as he could, Peter worked the wood out with his hunting knife, after which the elephant gingerly put down its foot. The elephant turned to face the man, and with a rather curious look on its face, stared at him for several tense moments. Peter stood frozen, thinking of nothing else but being trampled. Eventually the elephant trumpeted loudly, turned, and walked away. Peter never forgot that elephant or the events of that day.

Twenty years later, Peter was walking through the Chicago Zoo with his teenaged son. As they approached the elephant enclosure, one of the creatures turned and walked over to near where Peter and his son Cameron were standing. The large bull elephant stared at Peter, lifted its front foot off the ground, then put it down. The elephant did that several times then trumpeted loudly, all the while staring at the man.

Remembering the encounter in 1986, Peter couldn't help wondering if this was the same elephant. Peter summoned up his courage, climbed over the railing and made his way into the enclosure. He walked right up to the elephant and stared back in wonder.  I know what your thinking... The elephant trumpeted again, wrapped its trunk around one of Peter legs and slammed his stupid ass against the railing, killing him instantly ..! Probably not the same elephant?
This is for all of my friends who send me those heart-warming stories

Who Hung the Monkey. The Hartlepool Legend Lives On (Now Illustrated!)

"Monkey hanger" is an affectionate term by which Hartlepudlians are often know

According to local folklore, during the Napoleonic wars, a French ship of the type chasse marée (literally, tide-chaser) was wrecked off the coast of Hartlepool. The only survivor was a monkey, wearing a French uniform (presumably to provide amusement for those onboard the ship). On finding the monkey, some locals decided to hold an impromptu trial on the beach; since the monkey was unable to answer their questions, and many locals were unaware of what a Frenchman may look like, they concluded that the monkey was in fact a French spy. Just to make sure, the animal was thus sentenced to death and hanged from the mast of a fishing boat on the Headland. Nowadays, many Hartlepudlians have positively embraced the term, and only a small minority still consider the term 'Monkey Hanger' offensive. It is often used to refer to supporters of Hartlepool United Football Club by supporters of their arch rivals Darlington.

It is said that King Kong once came to Hartlepool bellowing "I've come for m' boy...!"

December 2009 CopperPlate

Double Click on this link to view the December 2009 edition of CopperPlate......

News Update

Most readers will not realise just how much effort and enthusiasm that has been invested by Bob Brown  in creating the new NARPO News page.

On behalf of all NARPO members, Bob, please accept our grateful thanks for your efforts - you are commended on the professionalism - I'm going to have to watch my job as Editor of the Peeler too I think?

The new webpage is a wonderful medium for up to date news and ongoing research. The response time is excellent and announcements, notices, deaths and other regulasr activities can be broadcast  almost instantly. Enjoy also the developing library of police related photographs many of which are from the Durham Peeler archives. Remember we are always keen to have new photographs . We can have originals scanned and returned within a short period of time.

I would encourage anyone with news, stories, photographs to get in touch with me. Alan Watson,  at the Durham Peeler magazine .suenala7@ntlworld.com or for more immediate publication, ,direct to  durhamnarpo@gmail.com

Congratulations once again Bob.

Alan S. Watson Chairman Durham Branch NARPO.

Durham NARPO News - Welcome......

Welcome to the Durham NARPO News...  A means for ex Durham Constabulary officers / staff to keep in touch with what is happening in the land of 'retirement.

Articles/features are regularly updated and extended.  To read the Copper Plate or Durham Peeler, click on the appropriate issue image - all pages can then be read full size.  

Please feel free to send any article(s) you might want to post for the info of others to durham.narpo@gmail.com and we will update this news forum.
If you have any 'old' photographs that we can add to the photograph albums please forward them as .jpg's to the email address above