Paul joined Durham Police as a Cadet in 1970 and was appointed as a regular Police Officer on 21 March 1973. After initial training he was posted to Stanley. His Police career within Durham saw him serving in both the North and South of the County, including Crook, Bishop Auckland, Peterlee and Seaham. He also spent a number of years with Traffic Patrols (North).
Paul met Janet, his wife, in 1971 when they were both Police Cadets in Durham; Janet also went on to join Durham Constabulary as a Police Officer and they married in 1975.
In 1984, Paul transferred to Dorset Police and was based at Dorchester and was seconded throughout most of 1984 in the Midlands, during the Miner’s Strike. However, he and his wife, Janet, deeply missed the North East and returned to the Durham Force in 1987.
Paul rose through the ranks in Durham Constabulary, spending a number of years as a Supervisory Officer, attaining the rank of Inspector. His final posting was with Professional Standards at Peterlee.
For a number of years, Paul was the Force’s Hostage Negotiator.
A number of commendations were awarded to Paul during his career; one being for rescuing a man who had fallen in the River Wear, in Durham. Another was awarded for apprehending a violent drunken man in the early hours, at a nightclub in Dorchester. This man had assaulted staff and Paul, who was on duty, alone at the time was also badly assaulted.
In 2005, Paul retired as a Police Officer to become the Office Manager in Professional Standards; he retired from Police Service altogether in 2015, after 45years service, including his cadet service.
Throughout his life, Paul was a passionate runner and athlete. He was also a supporter of Newcastle United Football Club, attending many games with his grandfather and later with his two sons.
Paul is survived by wife Janet, son Mark (D/Insp Counter Corruption), daughter Aylsa (Vetting Researcher, Professional Standards), son Peter (Force Headquarters, Real Time Intelligence), Mark’s spouse Elizabeth (DC in Safeguarding) and Aylsa’s spouse Martin (Superintendent, District Commander with Cleveland Police) and much loved grandchildren Isla (14 years), Finlay (13 years), Camila (7 years) and Anna (7 years).
A funeral service is to be held at 12.00 noon Wednesday 27th March 2024 at St. John’s Church, Nevilles Cross, Durham DH1 4DU
Family flowers only, donations in lieu to St. John’s Church, Nevilles Cross, Durham.
After the funeral, friends are invited to join the family at St. John’s Church Centre, Nevilles Cross, Durham
Our thoughts are with Paul’s family and friends at this sad time.