People with long memories of Durham Constabulary are being asked to delve into the past to help celebrate a forthcoming anniversary.
A Durham Constabulary History Society has been formed to act as a focal point for the gathering and display of information and artefacts about the force.
This will culminate in the production of a new Durham Constabulary History in readiness for the 175th anniversary celebrations in 2014/15 and the opening of the proposed new headquarters at Aykley Heads, Durham, which is still awaiting planning approval.
Officers and staff – both present and past – are getting involved in the group. But they also want to tap into the memories of others who have past associations with the force.
Assistant Chief Constable Michael Banks said: “Durham is one of the oldest forces in the country. This is an opportunity to celebrate the proud history of an organisation which has been protecting people in County Durham and Darlington since 1840, albeit in a number of different guises.
“We think there may be many people with their own particular memories, or perhaps historic artefacts, which they want to share with us. We’d be happy to hear from them.”
One of the first tasks of the new society is to examine innovative ways of displaying historic material in areas where space is at a premium. To this end, anyone who has potential material is asked to contact the force first before sending it for possible inclusion in the collection.
They should ring 101 and ask for the Force Knowledge Manager or email: [email protected]