Haslemere service honours first Surrey Constabulary officer killed in the line of duty

Today marks the 170th anniversary of the death of the first Surrey Constabulary officer killed in the line of duty.

A service to commemorate Inspector William Donaldson took place at Haslemere's Memorial Green on Sunday.

Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Ellie Vesey-Thompson attended the event with Insp Donaldson's great-great-grandchildren, Jane Matthews and Henry Pelham, as well as retired police officers, town councillors and residents.

Insp Donaldson was attacked at Market House - now Haslemere Town Hall - on the night of July 29 1855. He died in the early hours of the following morning.

Ellie said: “Insp Donaldson is rightly remembered now as the ‘Haslemere hero’ for his dedication to keeping the town safe, for which he made the ultimate sacrifice.

“Remembering William and the bravery shown by him and his colleagues that night is a stark reminder of the threats our officers still face to this day.

“We remember William alongside the 26 other Surrey officers who have died in the line of duty since.

“I am incredibly grateful to the wonderful officers serving our county today, wearing their uniform with pride while keeping Surrey safe.”

Mr Pelham, 83, said: “He makes me feel so proud, it still brings a lump to my throat.

“There isn’t a day that goes by that we don’t mention his name.”

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