The archive of New Scotland Yard is a fascinating and diverse visual record of the work of the Metropolitan Police Service from the early 19th century up until the present day, and covers all areas of police work.

Within the collection, numbering over 1300 images, are some fantastic early images of undercover policemen and forensic work through the years including fingerprinting and crime scene photography. The archive also covers historic police vehicles, dog training, mounted police, new technology (and yes, there are several photos of THAT police call box), accidents, uniforms, badges, weapons and pictures sets of key incidents such as the Brixton Riots and Poll Tax demonstrations. There are even posters and documents detailing the regulations for Queen Victoria's Coronation in 1838 and one that warns against throwing orange peel in the street!

In addition, the collection includes terrific photographs of the typical bobby on the beat, helping children to cross the road, or giving directions to tourists, as well as red letter days such as royal visits or the 1929 Metropolitan Police centenary celebrations. Of particular note are the hundreds of photographs that reflect the role of women in the Met over the past century. We've come up with a selection of the evidence here to prove what a crime-busting collection this is.

We hope this email finds you safe and well. Mary Evans Picture continues to be open for business with staff working remotely. If you have any questions, need a quote or picture research, please get in touch with us by emailing pictures@maryevans.com or calling 020 8318 0034.