Wilf joined Durham Constabulary on 20th May 1974; he was promoted to Sergeant in November 1985 and then to Inspector in June 1992. He served around the county, including Traffic Patrols, finishing his service at Headquarters and retiring on 19th May 2004.
On 4th July 1978, by the Queen’s order, Wilf’s name was published in the London Gazette as commended for brave conduct, charging the Prime Minister to express her high appreciation of his rendered services. This followed the apprehension of an armed robber for which he was also awarded the Matt Wilkinson Trophy.
Prior to his appointment, Wilf served in the Royal Navy from 4th May 1965 to 3rd May 1974 as a Leading Steward and Ship’s Diver; his longest draft was onboard HMS Eagle in the Far East for 18 months.
Wilf is survived by wife Claire, daughter Catherine and husband Matthew, son Dominic and wife Demi and grandchildren Ross and Christopher.
A Requiem Mass will be held at 10.00am Saturday 12th February 2022 at St Patrick’s RC Church, Goatbeck Terrace, Langley Moor DH7 8JJ, followed by a private interment in Meadowfield Cemetery.
Family flowers only please, any donations in lieu to the RNLI or the Northern Centre for Cancer Care Centre (Freeman Hospital).
Our thoughts are with Wilf’s family and friends at this sad time.
