Stockport Borough Police Helmet Plate. BA 893. Stockport Borough Police Helmet Plate. BA 893. Antique & Militaria

Stockport Borough Police was founded as a full-time police force in 1870. Lieutenant Blair Sharples was appointed Chief Constable, and he commanded a force of fifteen men. In 1922 G W Rowbotham became Chief Constable and oversaw the introduction motor vehicles, a police box system and the introduction of radio. The force became part of Cheshire Constabulary in 1967. In 1974, as a result of local government reorganisation, Stockport became the J Division of the newly formed Greater Manchester Police. In June 1967, the town saw it greatest tragedy when 72 people died following the crash of a returning holiday flight. Stockport Borough Police’s PC Bill Oliver – the first officer to reach the crash scene - began to attempt a rescue. He was joined by PC John Heath and others – including many heroic members of the public – and between them they managed to pull 12 survivors clear before finally being beaten back by the spreading flames. The plate is in good order but has lost some blackening over the years. The price includes UK delivery. BA 893.