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Dudley Police Force 100th anniversary

Dudley Police Force is 100 years old today.

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The force was the first in the West Midlands after breaking away from Worcestershire Constabulary, according to West Midlands Police museum.

But celebrations for the anniversary are on hold due to the coronavirus pandemic.

WMPHistory tweeted saying: "Today we commemorate 100 years since the creation of Dudley Borough Police.

"Dudley was the last borough force created in the West Midlands after breaking away from Worcestershire Constabulary.

"1 April 1920 an establishment of 56 officers took control of policing for the borough.

"Research for this event has identified that Dudley Borough Police released a number of officers to the Armed Forces during World War II, including two that did not come home.

"PC Walter Wilde and PC Raymond Coulson, both aged 27, died in 1943 and 1944 respectively.

"We are seeking pictures of PC Wilde and PC Coulson to add them to our digital WMPolice WWI and WWII Roll of Honour.

"We also commemorate Dudley Borough's first two female officers - recruited in 1947.

"PW Doreen Carter and PW Agnes Ross served the borough for over 20 years.

"We are seeking a better quality picture of Agnes if anyone can help.

"Dudley Borough Police merged with other Black Country forces to become West Midlands Constabulary in 1966 and eventually merged with Birmingham, Coventry, Solihull and parts of Staffordshire and West Mercia to form the current force West Midlands Police in 1974.

"We have been working on a booklet to commemorate the centenary of Dudley Borough Police which will be available to purchase when the Lock-up re-opens, with all money raised supporting the relocation of the WMPolice Museum to the Lock-up.

"If you have any information, pictures or memories to share of Dudley Police - please get in touch via Museum@west-midlands.pnn.police.uk "

Superintendent Jason Anderson tweeted saying: "A great tribute to Dudley Police which is 100 years old today.

"Unfortunately due to current restrictions we had to pause our day of celebrations. Thanks to WMPHistory for this fascinating look back through the archives and those who led policing before us #Dudley100."

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