Death of Retired Police Staff: Margaret Pattenden

It is with deep regret that we inform you of the death of retired Police Staff, Margaret Pattenden of Bishop Auckland, who died in Darlington Memorial Hospital on Monday 28th October 2024, aged 90 years.

Margaret worked for Durham County Constabulary from 20th March 1953 until 11th January 1994 (nearly 41 years).

She started her employment at the old Aycliffe Police Headquarters, where she worked as a secretary.  In later years of her service, she was the PA/Secretary to the Chief Constable, a role she held for many years.  Margaret was always immaculately dressed and very particular about her appearance; she was very much a ‘lady’, whilst retaining a good sense of humour.

Born in Bishop Auckland, Margaret lived in their family home, initially with her parents and sibling, Julia who died in 2017.

In 2021 Margaret suffered a stroke, but after hospitalisation and physiotherapy, she continued to live independently, with the help of her close friends.  Margaret’s health eventually caused her to move into Eden House Care Home, in Bishop Auckland.  During weekly visits from her friends, she loved to reminisce about her days as a secretary at Durham Constabulary’s Aycliffe HQ.  Two friends she made there remained in touch with her right to her end.

After retirement, Margaret liked to spend time with friends and even took up Bell Ringing at St Andrew’s Church, South Church, Bishop Auckland.  This activity kept her fit and afterwards, with fellow campanologists she would visit the neighbouring pub, ‘just to be sociable’.  Aided by her carer, she attended St Andrew’s Church in April 2024, for the ‘Blessing of the new Bell Ropes’ service.

Another great passion of hers was shopping, particularly for clothes, never failing to buy a new outfit; she was always smartly dressed and very fashionable.

Sadly, in October this year, Margaret suffered a further stroke, from which she did not recover; she will be sadly missed.

A funeral service is to be held at 12.30pm on Friday 22nd November 2024 at Wear Valley Crematorium, Coundon, Bishop Auckland DL14 8PE

Family flowers only, donations in lieu please to Dogs Trust.

After the funeral, friends are invited to meet for refreshment at Bishop Auckland Hospital Social Club, 32 Escomb Road, Bishop Auckland DL14 6TZ

Would anyone likely to meet at the wake please contact the Durham NARPO Chairman on 07535261063 or Durham2@narpo,org.uk in order that numbers can be passed on for catering purposes.

Our thoughts are with Margaret’s family and friends at this sad time.