A Uniformed Response: Recollections of a Kent police officer from the 1960s

How times change! Many will recall seeing the local “bobby” in his pointed helmet, smart tunic and polished duty boots patrolling the High Street and chatting to members of the public who generally respected their presence. They now go round in groups, wearing bright yellow jackets, anti-stab vests, flat hats and unpolished shoes. At the back of their minds, the constant worry that they will not reach the current month’s target for arrests. Tony Kirkbank joined the Kent Police Force in 1962...