Celebrating Over Four Decades in the Special Constabulary

Ahead of his retirement, Special Chief Inspector Ian Heaford received well-deserved recognition for long service at a recent commendation ceremony held at our police training centre in Sulhamstead.

Reflecting on his time volunteering in the Special Constabulary, Ian recollects:

As I think back to when I started my service over 40 years ago it’s difficult to remember the details of my first duty shift now, but I do remember the mixed feelings including excitement and nervousness for what was to come.  In terms of preparation things were very different back then and training was very much ‘on the job’.  There were regular evening training sessions at the station and occasional weekends at the training centre in Sulhamstead, but nothing like the comprehensive initial training programme we provide for new recruits now.  Of course, the uniform and equipment were very different too;  blue shirt, black tie and tunic, and just a wooden truncheon for personal protection.  I have to admit I think it did look smart, but what we have today is much more suited for modern policing.

As I’m about to retire and reflect on my time in the Special Constabulary and how much has changed over the years, the things I will remember most are not so much individual events, although some do stand out for both good and bad reasons, such as being called out on duty in response to the ‘Hungerford Massacre’, but more so the people I’ve met and the feeling of camaraderie and being part of the ‘police family’.  In fact, I met my now best friend on our first official day with TVP when we turned up as new recruits at Reading police station to collect our uniforms and be ‘sworn-in’.  As I joined when I was relatively young I also believe it helped me to develop my self-confidence and decision making and over time my leadership skills – all things which helped in my paid career.  But it’s a two-way street as I’ve also been able to use transferable skills and knowledge from my ‘day job’ in my roles within TVP.

So as this chapter of volunteering closes for me, I have opened a new one as a Guide Dog Puppy Raiser (with my wife), and for those that remain with the Special Constabulary (or are thinking about joining) I would say as with all things there will be good times and bad times, and times when you wonder why you are doing this, but although it sounds cliched the old adage “the more you put in the more you get out” does generally hold true and it can be truly rewarding, and like me you may make some life-long friends and memories.

Superintendent John Batty, Head of Community Policing Command, said:

Dedicating more than four decades of voluntary service to policing is an exceptional accomplishment and one that deserves enormous recognition. Throughout his time with Thames Valley Police, Ian has demonstrated an immense commitment to public service, supporting colleagues, communities and the Special Constabulary with professionalism and integrity. While policing has changed significantly over the years, his willingness to adapt, evolve, and contribute his experience has left a tremendous impression on those who have worked alongside him.

His recent commendation for long service only scratches the surface of Ian’s achievements at TVP, and on behalf of the Force, I would like to thank him for his remarkable contribution.

If you’re interested in starting your own journey as a volunteer in the Special Constabulary, you can discover more at our Specials webpage.

Special Constable Volunteer