LIVERPOOL PARKS POLICE

Liverpool’s extensive public parkland once had its own dedicated police force which provided a basic policing service. The first reference to’ Park Constables’ was during the Liverpool Town Cholera riots in 1832. The origins of the Liverpool Parks Police stretch back to circa 1855. The force remained in existence until it was disbanded on 31st March 1972. At the time of its demise the establishment stood at 7 Sergeants and 59 Constables under the command of a Superintendent. In reality a manning level that was consistent throughout it’s history, excluding the war years. Sadly all the official records dating back to Victorian times were destroyed on disbandment.

Following the disbandment many of the Constables joined other police forces including Cheshire Constabulary, Lancashire Constabulary, Ministry of Defence Police, Royal Corps of Military Police, Mersey Tunnel Police along with Merseyside Police. All continued to serve through to eventual retirement.

On 29th February 2012, The Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Councillor Frank Prendergast, held a formal Civic Reception at Liverpool Town Hall to commemorate the disbandment of the force 40 years previously.

Eighteen of the surviving former members of the Liverpool Parks Police came together for a “Final Parade” at the reception, they were each presented with an illuminated scroll in recognition of their service to the City by the Lord Mayor.

John Hutchinson (2012)

Further information about Liverpool Parks Police can be found on their website: www.liverpoolparkspolice.co.uk

Brian Starkey