FBI - Fire Department - Police

Jun. 06, 1969 - A very special constable: Gilly James is a very special constable. But its all unofficial. When the little Devon village of Morchard Bishop lost its village bobby in a modernisation scheme, 78 year old Gilly appointed himself the new local copper. And for two years, Britain's only private policeman has been patrolling the streets of the picturesque village helping children across the road, keeping an eye on the dances at the village hall and checking closing time at the local pub. Gilly real name Gilbert only five feet tall explained at his old-world country farmhouse. Though I have been a farmer all my life I have always wanted to be a policeman. When I was younger I used to watch the men on point duty. The only trouble is my uniform. The tunic is blue but the trousers are black and the only buttons. I could get were army surplus Gunners ones. My peaked cap was given to me by policeman and I've got a good pair of hob-nailed boots. I attend all the weddings, fates and dances. I check the drivers lights and make sure they are parked in the right place. I do a lot of point duty in and out of uniform. Its important that the children get across the road safely. A Devon and Cornwall police spokesman said; Mr. James is doing a good job of work in the village and we are grateful to him'. He added, jokingly: We are always wanting recruits but we do wish they would lets us know when they join

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