Death of retired Police Officer: Sgt 379 Thomas Bartley Cotgrave

It is with deep regret that we inform you of the death of retired Police Officer: Sgt 379  Thomas Bartley Cotgrave who  died on the 4th April 2025, aged 91 years

Tom first joined Durham Constabulary as a Cadet at Durham City before he was called to complete his National Service.

He became PC 902 in December 1953 and was posted to Felling as a beat constable. He was appointed as Accident Prevention Officer and transferred to Whickham when the Divisional HQ moved there.  Tom then went onto Detached Beat Officer duties  in Swalwell. 

On Promotion to Sergeant 379 he was posted to Traffic Management at Headquarters which at that time was at Newton Aycliffe.

He retired on medical grounds in 1982 after 29 years service.

Tom leaves his wife Sheila and their three children Keith, Ian and Lynne together with their partners, six Grandchildren and five Great Grandchildren. 

The funeral will take place at 3pm on Wednesday 30th April at the Methodist Chapel, 103 High Street, Carville, Durham DH1 1BQ. The funeral is not private.  

Friends and former colleagues are welcome to attend.  Family flowers only please. 

Our thoughts are with the family at this sad time.

Death of Retired Police Officer: Chief Superintendent 165 Stuart Richard Cooksley

It is with deep regret that we inform you of the death of retired Police Officer, Chief Superintendent 165 Stuart Richard Cooksley, who died peacefully at home on Sunday 9th February 2025, aged 77 years, following a long illness.

Richard joined Durham County Constabulary on 13th August 1966, retiring from Durham Constabulary on 27th March 1996.

After his retirement, Richard enjoyed fishing and woodworking projects.

Richard was predeceased by his first wife, Joy and survived by his wife Dorothy and daughter Helen.

A private committal service was held on Tuesday 4th March 2025.

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