Force Orders 1878 X THIS DOCUMENT IS COPYRITE AND REMAINS THE PROPERTY OF THE CHESHIRE CONSTABULARY IT IS INTENDED TO AID THE RESEARCHER AT THE PUBLIC RECORDS OFFICE, CHESTER NO COPIES IN ANY DIGITAL FORMAT WILL BE ALLOWED WITHOUT PRIOR PERMISSION FROM THE CHESHIRE CONSTABULARY OR THE TRUSTEES OF THE MUSEUM OF POLICING IN CHESHIRE CHESHIRE CONSTABULARY GENERAL ORDERS CJP4 VOLUME 2 1st January1878 ~ 30th December1878 General Order Purport Page No. 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 1 2 1 2 3 4 5 1 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 1 2 1 2 3 1 2 3 4 1 2 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 1 2 3 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 1 2 1 2 3 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 1 2 1 2 1 2 3 1 2 1 2 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 1 2 3 4 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 1 1 2 3 Chief Constables Office, Chester 1st January 1878 In consequence of a letter from the Home Secretary directing the attention of the Court of Quarter Sessions to a complaint made to him of certain persons being apprehended without a Warrant and their detention for four days at a Lock-Up without being brought before a Magistrate and by the direction of the Court of Quarter Sessions, the Deputy Chief Constable directs that Superintendents will personally warn all their men against apprehending persons without a Warrant, except in the clearest cases of felony, and that under no circumstances whatever will they detain prisoners in a Lock-Up longer than is absolutely necessary before taking them before a Magistrate for remand or disposal. Superintendent Mayho is hereby reprimanded for neglecting to do so in a recent case of felony at Ashton Hayes. All the Superintendents will attend at Crewe Police Station at 12 noon on Thursday the 3rd instant. PC Banner is dismissed the force for drunkenness and assaulting two men at Frodsham on the 26th ultimo. Chief Constables Office, Chester 5th January 1878 Superintendent Dale will receive increase of pay to £143 per annum from the 26th ultimo. PC Jackson Number 8 Division will receive increase of pay to 26/10d per week from this date. Chief Constables Office, Chester 8th January 1878 The following transfers will take place on such day as may be arranged. PC Woodcock from Number 6 to Number 8 Division to be stationed at Eaton. PC John McMichael from Willaston to Great Saughall re transfer of PC Woodcock. Chief Constables Office, Chester 17th January 1878 PC Large Number 7 Division to be Acting Sergeant from this date. Chief Constables Office, Chester 17th January 1878 PC W. Clare Number 2 Division is dismissed from the force for drunkenness, insolence to his Sergeant, and improperly interfering with a Farmer and threatening to Lock him up. By Order G. E. Oldmeadow Chief Clerk Chief Constables Office, Chester 26th January 1878 The following transfers have taken place since 5th November 1877 Rank and Name Old Division New Division PC McClean 6 5 (Nov) PC Skally 2 4 (Dec) PC Cooper 4 2 (Dec) PC Coughlan 2 4 (Dec) PC E. Jones 7 2 (Dec) PC Woodcock 6 9 (Jan 1878) PC Wynne 9 10 (Jan 1878) PC J. Walker 10 9 (Jan 1878) PC Yearsley 7 11 (Jan 1878) The following transfers will take place on such dates as may be arranged Rank and Name Old Division New Division PC Lloyd 5 7 PC Pettingale 7 2 PC Jebb 2 6 PC Higgins 2 5 Chief Constables Office, Chester 4th February 1878 The following promotions will take place from the 2nd instant inclusive Division Rank and Name New Weekly Rate 2 Inspector Leighton £110 per annum 8 Sergeant Gibson 33/10d 4 Sergeant Lowe 29/2d 8 Sergeant Tinsley 29/2d 1 PC Whitley 28/- 2 PC Fowles 28/- 2 PC Bennett 28/- 3 Acting Sergeant Leather 28/- 4 PC Sheehan 28/- 4 PC Latham 28/- 4 PC Hughes 28/- 5 PC Wright 28/- 5 PC McClean 28/- 7 PC Turner 28/- 7 Acting Sergeant Large 28/- 7 PC J. Harrison 28/- 8 PC Brereton 28/- 9 PC Dawson 28/- 10 PC Denteth 28/- 3 PC Moss 26/10d 4 PC Carpenter 26/10d 4 PC Percival 26/10d 5 PC Pearson 26/10d 5 PC Croghan 26/10d 6 PC Condon 26/10d 6 PC Lister 26/10d 6 PC Campbell 26/10d 7 PC Crabb 26/10d 7 PC Birtles 26/10d 7 PC Miller 26/10d 8 PC Young 26/10d 10 PC Dalziel 26/10d 1 PC Reece 25/8d 2 PC Martyn 25/8d 2 PC Marshall 25/8d 2 PC Riddlesworth 25/8d 2 PC J. Peers 25/8d 2 PC Osmond 25/8d 2 PC Parrott 25/8d 3 PC Lymm 25/8d 4 PC Harper 25/8d 4 PC Oldfield 25/8d 5 PC Gatley 25/8d 5 PC Thomas 25/8d 6 PC Reilly 25/8d 6 PC Goudie 25/8d 6 PC Price 25/8d 6 PC Price 25/8d 6 PC Lewis 25/8d 6 PC Dillon 25/8d 6 PC Kneele 25/8d 7 PC Davies 25/8d 7 PC Cummings 25/8d 7 PC Wood 25/8d 9 PC Hammersley 25/8d 9 PC C. Peers 25/8d 10 PC Ardern 25/8d 10 PC Rhodes 25/8d 1 PC Chatterton 24/6d 2 PC Huntsworth 24/6d 3 PC Naughton 24/6d 4 PC Gibson 24/6d 6 PC Thompson 24/6d 7 PC Halliday 24/6d 2 PC S. G. Cooper 24/6d 7 PC Matthews 24/6d Chief Constables Office, Chester 5th February 1878 The following allowances will be charged from the 26th December last for cleaning of Magistrates Rooms and Police Stations. Division Station Per Month for Magistrates Rooms £ s d Per Month for Police Station £ s d 1 Farndon 5 1 Malpas 5 1 Tattenhall 5 2 Altrincham 10 10 2 Knutsford 7 2 Lymm 7 7 2 Sale 7 3 Frodsham 5 3 Oakmere 10 6 3 Tarporley 5 4 Audlem 5 4 Crewe 10 10 4 Nantwich 10 10 5 Holmes Chapel 7 5 Middlewich 10 5 Northwich 10 10 5 Sandbach 7 5 Winsford 7 6 Birkenhead 14 10 6 Egremont 10 6 6 Little Sutton 5 6 Neston 8 6 6 New Brighton 6 6 Hoylake No charge Coal and Light found for Keeper 7 Dukinfield 8 7 Hyde 14 14 7 Mottram 7 7 Millbrook 7 8 Macclesfield 10 8 8 Bollington 7 6 Wilmslow 6 9 Disley 5 9 Cheadle 7 9 Hazel Grove 7 9 Northenden 5 9 Stockport 10 7 10 Runcorn 10 10 10 Stockton Heath 6 11 Head Quarters 18 11 Hoole Store Room only No charge for Station, Coal and Gas found for officer in charge 3 Tarvin Cottage 1 6 5 Alsager 2 6 5 Rode Heath 2 6 6 Bromborough 2 6 10 Whitby 2 6 5 Scholar Green 2 6 Altrincham County Court £8. 8s. 0d received for cleaning to be retained for that purpose and providing Coal. Nantwich £6. 4s 0d received for cleaning to be retained for that purpose and providing Coal. Hyde £10. 0s. 0d received, £8. 8s. 0d to be retained for cleaning and the remainder to 17 Clause. Runcorn £8. 0s. 0d received and retained. Chief Constables Office, Chester 16th February 1878 The following promotions will take place from this date, Acting Inspector Cooper, Number 7 Division to be Superintendent of Number 8 Division at £130 per annum. Acting Sergeant Meredith Number 7 Division to be Sergeant at Hyde at 30/4d per week. Inspector Williamson Reserve will receive an increase of pay to £105 per annum. PC Williams Number 6 Division is dismissed the force for using threatening language to his Sergeant. Chief Constables Office, Chester 19th February 1878 Until further notice the 19 officers now stationed in that portion of the Wirral Division to be taken over by the Birkenhead Police on the 1st proximo will be distributed as follows Staff Section 1 Acting Sergeant and 1 PC to Bebington 3 Sergeants 1 each to New Brighton, Wallasey and Sutton 7 PC's to Wallasey 3 PC's to Upton 2 PC's to Neston 2 PC's to Sutton Total 19 officers Mr. Oldmeadow Chief Superintendent, will act as Deputy Chief Constable until the appointment is filled up. Chief Constables Office, Chester 26th February 1878 Captain Arrowsmith having been appointed Chief Constable and assumed the Command of the force earnestly trusts that all ranks in the Constabulary will cordially co-operate with him by cheerfully and energetically carrying out all duties so as to ensure a continuance of the efficiency of the police and the satisfaction of the ratepayers which so long existed under the supervision of the late Chief Constable. PC Rawles Number 7 Division is dismissed the force. Inspector Leighton will remove from Altrincham to Sale. PC Morris will be transferred from Number 6 to Number 7 Division. Chief Constables Office, Chester 1st March 1878 To ensure uniformity in the appearance of the force Cap covers with chin strap down and leggings will invariably be worn on all duties between 1st November and 31st March. Superintendents are held responsible for this order being strictly carried out. Staff Cases with Staff will also be worn on all duties, including Assizes and Quarter Sessions. Sergeant Walker Number 7 Division to be Acting Inspector with the Merit Badge and 2d per diem extra pay. PC Twiss Number 4 Division is dismissed the force. Chief Constables Office, Chester 2nd March 1878 PC Tinsley will be transferred from Number 8 to Number 5 Division re discharge of PC Hemmings (Cancelled) Chief Constables Office, Chester 5th March 1878 The following transfers will take place on such days as may be arranged, PC Tinsley from Number 8 to Number 7 Division and PC Blair from Number 7 to Number 5 Division. Chief Constables Office, Chester 7th March 1878 In future uniform trousers will not be worn with plain coats. Superintendents, Inspectors or Sergeants will not after this date convey prisoners to jail or get up evidence at Inquests. The Constables on duty will perform these duties except in extreme circumstances. Constables attending Assizes and Quarter Sessions as Witnesses will parade for the Chief Constables inspection at Chester under the Inspector at Head Quarters and at Knutsford under the Superintendent of the Altrincham Division outside the Court Houses, on which occasions Caps will be worn. The Staff Case will always be worn on the left side, but need not be carried during night duty. In future when transfers take place the leggings will be taken as part of the officers clothing. Chief Constables Office, Chester 9th March 1878 General Order re Inspectors and Sergeants Duty Books retained at rear of the Volume. Chief Constables Office, Chester 12th March 1878 PC William Leah is transferred from Number 2 to Number 5 Division. Chief Constables Office, Chester 14th March 1878 Constables when giving evidence at Court will always stand at attention looking at the Bench. When attending Divine Service in Uniform, Helmets and White Gloves will be worn. The following transfers will take place on the 25th instant, Sergeant Clarke from Reserve to Number 7 Division, PC Meredith from Number 7 to Reserve and PC Downes from Number 7 to Reserve Division. The Old Helmets will be re issued for night wear. Chief Constables Office, Chester 18th March 1878 The Chief Constable has much pleasure in making known that the Cheshire Constabulary have subscribed the handsome sum of £43. 16s 6d on behalf of the Widow and Children of the late Superintendent Dale. All Superintendents will regularly send in a Weekly Report of their Night visits whether they visit or not, in the latter case, cause will be stated. Superintendents will send in a Return showing clearly all amounts usually received by their officers in cases under "The Criminal Justice Act, Juvenile Offenders Act" attending at Petty Sessions to prove service of Summons, as either part of costs, or special duty allowance, Coroners Inquests, or for any other duties performed by them for which they receive allowances from any source whatsoever. The Constabulary are referred to General Order of the 27th August 1874 respecting promotions. Superintendents will acknowledge the receipt of their New Clothing as soon as received to this office and Messrs Dolan and Co, it will be fitted on the men at once, but not taken into wear until further orders. All appointments wanted to complete will be applied for at once. PC L. Dodd Number 6 Division is dismissed the force for disobedience of Orders. One of the printed Notices in reference to Wild Fowl will be served upon all Game Dealers in each Division and a list of same sent to this office. Chief Constables Office, Chester 19th March 1878 The following transfers will take place from the 25th instant instead of those ordered in General Order 14th instant, Sergeant Clarke from Number 11 to Number 6 Division, Sergeant Harvey from Number 6 to Number 7 Division, PC's S. H. Harrison and J. Downes Number 7 Division to be Acting Sergeant. Chief Constables Office, Chester 26th March 1878 The following transfers will take place on the 12th proximo, Sergeant Aston from Number 2 to Number 10 Division and Sergeant Steen from Number 10 to Number 2 Division. (Cancelled see page 274) In reference to General Order of the 7th instant, Staff cases will be worn on day and night shifts Superintendents are held responsible that unless compelled for want of room, only one prisoner is allowed to be confined in a cell at one time. Some Superintendents having paid Bills for a large amount under the "Dogs Act" they will remember that in future no accounts under that heading will be charged without authority from this office, the Act does not require the Notices to be advertised in Newspapers , and the police should be employed in posting them in their several Divisions. Chief Constables Office, Chester 29th March 1878 All the Officers detailed in General Order of the 11th April 1876 will attend at Tarporley Hunt Steeple Chase at Tarporley at 11am on the 3rd proximo, smart good looking men will be sent in place of any who have left the force or who have been transferred since April 1876, White Gloves, Staff Cases, Helmets and New Leggings will be worn. Superintendents and Inspectors will appear in waist belts. Superintendent Steen will be in charge as Senior Superintendent present. The receipt of this order will be acknowledged and a list of all the officers detailed for this duty will be sent by return of post to this office. Chief Constables Office, Chester 1stApril 1878 The Chief Constable is pleased to observe that in some Divisions the provisions of the "Sale of Food and Drugs Act 1875" are being carried out and trusts that all Superintendents will increase their vigilance in performance of this duty. Merit Badges and Chevrons will be worn on the right arm. Superintendents will not enter in their Weekly Report of night visits the name of the Conference points fixed for Sergeants and PC's but will place where they meet the officers which should be away from their usual Conference points Superintendents and Inspectors will send to this office their waist belt with their name attached to same. Chief Constables Office, Chester 2nd April 1878 Captain The Honourable Cuthbert Ellison Edwardes is appointed Superintendents of the Hyde Division at £130 per annum. Captain The Honourable Cuthbert Ellison Edwardes is appointed Deputy Chief Constable at £100 per annum. Chief Constables Office, Chester 5th April 1878 PC William Stockton is dismissed the force from yesterday for using unnecessary violence in the execution of his duty. Whenever Constables are Summonsed for Assaults a full report will be sent by their Superintendents of the Division to this office before the case comes on for hearing. Officers allowing prisoners to escape will invariably be charged with all expenses incurred in their recapture. Superintendents will see that all officers when attending Races or other similar meetings have their Capes neatly folded up and fastened to their waist belts. Chief Constables Office, Chester 8th April 1878 Acting Superintendent Morris will take charge of Nantwich Division from the 13th instant during the absence of Superintendent Saxton who is on sick leave, who will provide the former with a horse and cart when necessary to carry out the duties of the Division. Chief Constables Office, Chester 9th April 1878 On the recommendation of the Chief Constable the following officers will be discharged on Superannuation on the 12th instant. Sergeant Jonathan Bolshaw Number 9 Division at £40 per annum, PC Richard Boulton Number 7 Division at £35 per annum and PC Charles Wood Number 2 Division £35 per annum. Acting Sergeant Davies to be Sergeant at 30/4d per week and to be stationed at Cheadle re superannuation of Sergeant Bolshaw. Acting Superintendent Morris is appointed Inspector of Weights and Measures in Number 4 Division to act during the absence of Superintendent Saxton who is on sick leave. Sergeant John Wood Number 7 Division and Acting Sergeant Peter Ridgeway are awarded the Merit Badge with pay from the 13th instant, the latter to be stationed at Disley. The following transfers will take place on such days as may be arranged Rank Name Old Division New Division Acting Sergeant Blythen 10 9 PC Woodcock 8 7 PC Moss 3 8 to be stationed at Bollington PC Furness 3 10 (Cancelled) The Chief Constables private address is The Elms, Hoole Road, Chester. Chief Constables Office, Chester 9th April 1878 The following detail of police will if circumstances admit attend the following places on Good Friday, in Number 6 Division the 19th instant Officers Location Inspector Williamson, Sergeant Meredith and PC Morgan from Reserve. A sergeant and 6 PC's from Number 1 Division, 3 PC's from Number 3 Division and a Sergeant and 8 PC's from Number 10 Division. Total 22 men. New Ferry 11am A Sergeant and 6 PCs from Number 3 Division. A Sergeant and 6 PC's from Number 5 Division. Total 14 men Eastham Ferry 11am A Sergeant and 5 PC's from Number 4 Division. Total 6 Men. New Brighton Landing Stage at 9am Officers required in total 42. Chief Constables Office, Chester 11th April 1878 The Chief Constable has reason to believe that some Constables on the slightest pretence make use of their staff when engaged in arresting persons, and he is much opposed to such a practice, not only in the welfare of the force, but also to avoid injuring innocent persons unnecessarily, and warns all ranks of the force that if this practice is persisted in, it will result in the most serious consequences to those who may be guilty of such violence. The Chief Constable fears the idea prevails in the minds of some Constables that their efficiency is increased in proportion to the number of cases they bring before the Magistrates, this is an entire fallacy, vigilance, civility and good temper, combined with tact, discretion and firmness on the part of the police lends more towards the maintenance of peace and order, than by first irritating and afterwards apprehending persons under the influence of drink who might otherwise have reached their homes without transgressing the last. Superintendents will read this order at three successive weekly pay parades to their Divisions taking care to impress upon the younger and less experienced Constables the necessity of strict adherence to this order as the Chief Constable is determined to discontinuance to the utmost degree unnecessary acts of violence on the part of those composing the force and he relies entirely upon the efforts of the Superintendents to support him in carrying out a duty in which he take very great interest. Sergeant Samuel Rowbotham having been found unsuitable for the responsible position he holds is reduced to the rank and pay of a 1st Class Constable at 28/- per week from the 13th instant and will be transferred to Hyde. Acting Sergeant Shaw Number 7 Division is promoted to Sergeant at 30/4d per week and will be transferred to Macclesfield Division. PC George Woodcock Number 8 Division is fined 2/6d for being on duty without all his appointments, and Sergeants are warned that they are expected to report at once all Constables who so neglect their duty. The usual precautions will be observed during Chester Races as directed in General Order 5th May 1874. Chief Constables Office, Chester 13th April 1878 PC John Gibson Number 4 Division is fined 20/- and reprimanded for exceeding his duty in breaking his staff on the head of a man named Spann at Crewe on the 6th instant. PC John Pickford will be transferred from Number 4 to Number 7 Division. Chief Constables Office, Chester 17th April 1878 PC Samuel Browne Number 5 Division is fined 20/- and dismissed from the force for assaulting a Beer Seller who refused to supply him with drink and being drunk on duty. The following promotions will take place from the 20th instant Division Rank and Name New Weekly Rate 2 PC Basnett 24/6d 2 PC Franklin 24/6d 5 PC Leah 24/6d 6 PC Cummins 24/6d 6 PC Marity 24/6d 11 PC Morgan 24/6d 11 Acting Sergeant Stacey 26/10d Chief Constables Office, Chester 18th April 1878 PC John Dodd Number 7 Division to be Acting Sergeant and to be stationed at Mottram, PC C. Moss to be stationed at Tintwistle Chief Constables Office, Chester 23rd April 1878 The Chief Constable desires that Superintendents will discontinue the practice of Constables getting up Memorials in reference to their removal as the Chief Constable is determined not to alter his decision after an order has been given to transfer a Constable. Constables are again cautioned that they have no authority under the Poaching Prevention Act to enter upon land or premises in pursuit of Poachers, their duty being confined to highways. Caps will be worn by all officers when going on duty in other Divisions unless specifically ordered otherwise. Capes will be carefully folded square and be worn in the centre of the back. A Return of all Revolvers, Ammunition, Cap's etc now in each Division will be sent to this office. Chief Constables Office, Chester 24th April 1878 Superintendents will give a copy of the enclosed letter and annexed extract to the Sergeant of each Section in their Divisions and direct that the instructions therein are strictly carried out in all cases referred to (Admission of Children in Arms into Jail) By Order G. E. Oldmeadow Chief Clerk Chief Constables Office, Chester 24th April 1878 PC H. Cooper Number 2 Division to be Acting Sergeant and transferred to Number 6 Division to be stationed at Neston.(Transfer cancelled) Chief Constables Office, Chester 26th April 1878 PC Kneele Number 6 Division will be transferred to Number 2 Division vice PC Cooper promoted (Cancelled). Chief Constables Office, Chester 30th April 1878 Divisions will parade as follows in Helmets for Inspection by Captain Elgee Government Inspector Division Day Date and Time Location 8 Friday 3rd May 9am Macclesfield 5 Friday 3rd May 2.30pm Middlewich 4 Saturday 4th May 9.15am Nantwich 1 and 3 Saturday 4th May 2.30pm Tarporley HQ Monday 6th May 12 noon Chester 6 Tuesday 7th May 11am Birkenhead 10 Friday 10th May 9.30am Runcorn 2 Friday 10th May 3.30pm Altrincham 7 Saturday 11th May 10.30am Hyde 9 Saturday 11th May 10.30am Stockport The Book of Unpaid Penalties to be ready to be produced together with all information relating thereto. In reference to General Order of the 9th March last it will be understood that the short and long red lines are to be put in all duty books. Charge and Summons Books and all other Divisional Books will be signed monthly by Superintendents from January last and the date of last inspection by Captain Elgee entered in red ink. Chief Constables Office, Chester 8th May 1878 General Order of the 26th ultimo is cancelled and PC Kneele will be transferred to Number 10 Division. Chief Constables Office, Chester 11th May 1878 The following transfers will take place on such a day as may be arranged PC Slicer from Number 10 to Number 2 Division to be stationed Altrincham and Acting Sergeant Cooper of Number 2 to Number 10 Division to be stationed at Runcorn. Chief Constables Office, Chester 13th May 1878 The following detail of police will attend at this office punctually at 12 noon on Wednesday next, helmets and white gloves for duty at Chester Races Division Rank and Name Ins Sgt PC Total 1 Sergeant Bithell, PC's Bythell, Pearce and Rowe 1 3 4 3 Sergeant Porter, PC's Broster, Dunning and Southern 1 3 4 7 Acting Inspector Walker, Acting Inspector Taylor, Sergeant Wood, PC's Britton and Acting Sergeant Harrison 3 2 5 6 PC's Garside, McMichael, Burgess, Gosling, Jeffs, Dillon and Price. 7 7 Totals 5 15 20 General Order Number 1 of the 26th of March last is cancelled. The following promotions will take place from this date PC Carpenter Number 4 Division to be Acting Sergeant and PC Britton Number 7 Division to be Acting Sergeant, the latter to take charge of Newton Section residing in the Acting Sergeants house. PC Proudlove Number 7 Division is awarded the Merit Badge with pay. The following transfers will take place with as little delay as possible Acting Sergeant Bowden from Number 1 Division to Number 8 Division to be stationed at Poynton. Acting Sergeant Large from Number 7 to Number 1 Division to be stationed at Farndon station. PC Williams from Number 8 to Number 7 Division vice PC Britton promoted. PC William Wood Number 2 Division and PC Simcock Number 4 Division will be discharged from the force, not being likely to make efficient officers. PC William Savage Number 6 Division is dismissed from the force for neglect of duty and being in a Beer House in plain clothes off duty. Chief Constables Office, Chester 16th May 1878 Superintendents will hold every available man in readiness to send to the manufacturing districts on receipt of a Telegram from this office, or the Deputy Chief Constable, and they will at once make arrangements in their office that in the event of their being absent when the Telegram is received, that no delay occurs in sending the men required. Chief Constables Office, Chester 18th May 1878 In consequence of Acting Inspector Dutton indiscreetly and improperly apprehending a number of boys by taking them from their beds during the night without sufficient evidence to establish a charge of Arson. The Chief Constable most positively forbids any of the Constabulary acting in so harsh and hasty manner in apprehending persons, and cautions them that such conduct and dereliction of duty may lead to their dismissal or reduction. Chief Constables Office, Chester 18th May 1878 The Chief Constable with very great regret feels compelled from a sense of responsibility to order that Superintendent Lawton of Stockport Division be reduced to the rank and pay of Inspector at £110 per annum, in consequence of his general inefficiency and want of energy in discharging the important duties of his officer, although urged by the late Chief Constable upon several occasions to give more of his time and attention them, but which at the late Government Inspection it was evident he had neglected to do. He will be transferred to Number 6 Division and take charge of the station at Egremont. Sergeant Gibson will be transferred to Number 9 Division and take charge of Hazel Grove Section. (Cancelled) Sergeant Hone will be transferred to Number 8 Division and be stationed at Gawsworth The above changes will take place on the 1st proximo. Chief Constables Office, Chester 18th May 1878 The Chief Constable having reason to believe that officers of superior rank in the force have in some instances taken cases out of the hands of the Constables instead of instructing and assisting them to acquire a thorough knowledge of their duties. He wishes it to be clearly understood that any future act of this kind will if brought to his notice be visited a mark of his displeasure as he is determined to stamp out such a pernicious practice, it being quite impossible for the force to be efficient for the duties required of it so long as such habits exists. The Chief Constable directs the attention of Sergeants of Sections to this matter and he looks to them to take an interest in it by encouraging inexperienced Constables under their charge instead of disheartening the. Superintendents will not fail to report to the Chief Constable any departure from this order. Acting Inspector Dutton having disobeyed General Order of the 1st of January last and by doing so again brought the conduct of the Cheshire Constabulary to the House of Commons will revert to the rank of Sergeant and be transferred to Number 8 Division on the 1st proximo and be stationed at Gawsworth. Acting Inspector Naylor is transferred to Number 5 Division and will be stationed at Northwich. Sergeant Gibson is transferred to Number 7 Division and will be stationed at Dukinfield vice Sergeant Harvey removed to Mottram. Constables in the Leftwich Petty Sessions Divisions will report all cases to Acting Inspector Naylor, who will take proceedings independent of the Superintendents of Divisions comprised in that District, reporting to their Superintendents as heretofore all cases for entry in Charge and Summons Book. The Chief Constable has great pleasure in making it known to the Constabulary that Constable Joseph Lancelotte Number 2 Division has been presented with a Testimonial inscribed on Vellum by the Royal Humane Society in appreciation of his Gallantry in saving the life of a man named Allan Shaw from drowning, who in the darkness of the night fell into the River near Witton Bridge. Acting Sergeant Shaw is also highly commended by the Chief Constable for the assistance he rendered upon the occasion and the Chief Constable trusts that all ranks of the force will endeavour to show that they are always anxious to look after the lives and property of the public. Superintendents will discourage the practice of Constables wearing long hair and beards. Superintendents and Inspector will always wear their waist belts when on duty. In consequence of the great diminution in the number of Public and Beer House cases brought before Magistrates the Chief Constable desires that Superintendents will see that greater vigilance is used in carrying out the duty of detecting and proceeding against offenders under the Licensing Acts. Chief Constables Office, Chester 20th May 1878 Instruction in the anticipated Riots Superintendents will hold in readiness all their available strength and take such steps as will ensure their arrival at any point required without delay. Cutlasses will be brought with the men but carefully packed up and kept out of sight and on arrival placed in Station House or other Secure Place. Armlets will be worn under coats, staff and snips to be ready, Great Coats and Capes to be taken, particular attention is to be observed that no greater of County Officers is made than can be avoided, they are at once to go to the point named and remain their out of sight. Superintendents will send to the Chief Constable a memorandum showing their opinion of the speediest manner of assembly in their Divisions, say for present at London Road, Bank Top Station Manchester, they will also point out any means by Telegrams or Messengers from this officer by which their Sections could separately effect a speedier arrival at said station, for the Chief Constable has determined this to assemble the men so as not to allow them to arrive in the neighbourhood of reported riots in small detached bodies. Superintendents will keep open until further orders such a communication with their men as will enable the Superintendents on receipt of Telegram to assemble the largest number of men in the shortest time, not waiting for all, but make to the point of meeting as ordered by the Chief Constable as speedily as possible and Superintendents will recollect that every available man means every man that can possibly be spared. Superintendents where actually necessary but not otherwise will engage and pay Watchmen to perform night duty, for men thus taken from their Divisions, and these Watchmen will keep account of all duties so performed. Cutlasses will be arranged in Divisions so that no delay on that account will be caused. The Deputy Chief Constable has the authority on an emergency to assemble any Constables that can be spared from Numbers 8 and 9 Divisions and from the Altrincham Section of Number 2 Division, reporting forthwith to this office his having done so, the number assembled, old clothing to be worn, but with helmet, this order not to be made public. Superintendents will arrange all their duties with a view to the immediate concentration and sending of their men as Telegrams may direct. Divisions are to be formed as follows under their own Superintendents, Inspectors or Sergeants to be sized and told off as soon as assembled and a nominal list to be at once given to the Chief Constable or officer in charge, signed by the senior officer of each section Number 1 & 3 Divisions into 1 Division to be called Number 1 Section. Number 2 & 10 Divisions into 1 Division to be called Number 2 Section Number 4 & 5 Divisions into 1 Division to be called Number 3 Section. Number 6 Division into 1 Division to be called Number 4 Section. Number 7 Division into 1 Division to be called Number 5 Section. Number 8 & 9 Divisions into 1 Division to be called Number 6 Section. Superintendents will be held responsible that their men are properly supplied daily with breakfasts, dinners and tea and the same will be charged against each man whether he declines or neglects to partake of it and Superintendents will further report any men so declining or neglecting, as otherwise drink and exhaustion will render them unfit for work. Pistols on no account to be used, except in defence after firing by armed mobs. A copy of the Proclamation in the Riot Act will be in possession of the senior officer in the event of its being required by a Magistrate. Superintendents will acknowledge receipt of this order. Chief Constables Office, Chester 25th May 1878 PC J. Harrison will be transferred from Number 5 to Number 4 Division and be stationed at Crewe from the 27th instant (Cancelled). Chief Constables Office, Chester 27th May 1878 In reference to General Order of the 22nd Sergeant Dutton will be removed to Crewe instead of Gawsworth and Sergeant Plant will be transferred to the latter Station. Chief Constables Office, Chester 27th May 1878 The Chief Constable feels it necessary to make the following remarks in reference to the late inspection of the force by the Government Inspector. In future Sergeants and Constables may obtain promotion by strict attention in the performance of their duties under the following conditions and that they are otherwise eligible Condition Weekly Rate 3rd Class Sergeants on appointment at 30/4d After 2 years service 2nd Class at 31/6d After 2 years further service 1st Class at 32/8d Constables on appointment 3rd Class at 23/11d After 6 months service 3rd Class at 24/6d After 1 years further service 2nd Class at 25/8d After 2 years further service 2nd Class at 26/10d After 3 years further service 1st Class at 28/- It will be clearly understood that the above increases will only be granted on the conditions that the Conduct and Efficiency of the Officers has been satisfactory during the stated periods. Sergeants and Constables will be encouraged in acquiring knowledge of Company Drill, as their proficiency in this respect will be a recommendation for promotion. Sergeants of Sections will keep an Occurrence Book which will be frequently submitted for the inspection of their Superintendents, who will sign it. The date of Inspection by Captain Elgee will be entered in Red Ink in all Divisional Books. All Robberies and all cases of Felony and of a Serious Character will be entered in the "Property Stolen and Crimes Committed Book" instead of as present "Robberies Only" In Broxton Division no Public or Beer Houses had been reported and in Stockport Division no Public Houses were reported during the past twelve months, which shows great laxity on the Superintendents part in those Divisions. Superintendents will frequently visit their out stations, inserting same in their Journals, and how found and send a monthly report to Head Quarters of their condition. Superintendents will also send in a monthly Return showing the number of visits made to shops for inspecting Weights and Measures. Superintendents will make themselves thoroughly conversant with the number of Population, Suspected Characters, Public and Beer Houses and all other information to their Sections. All reports relating to Robberies etc to Superintendents to be filed and produced at the next Inspection, with Books etc. The hour of a Robbery etc, is reported and when an officer commences to make enquiries to be entered in duty and Occurrence Books. All entries in the Misconduct Book to be made in the Superintendents handwriting. Explanation to be entered in column "Remarks" in Robbery Books showing result of enquiries vice, "Doubtful" "No Robbery" etc. Superintendents will always personally enquire into all reports of Misconduct of Constables in the presence of the Constable and his Sergeant before sending a report to Head Quarters the Constables defence in writing will always accompany the report. Sergeants when practicable will visit Constables at their stations when going off duty. In Stations where there is a Lock-Up Keeper in addition to Superintendents or Inspector, the former will diet prisoners and draw cleaning allowance for the Station. When Sergeants fail to find Constables at Conference points they will invariably visit their Stations to ascertain cause. Sergeants and PC's Duty Book to be compared monthly signed by Sergeant and then submitted for inspection of Superintendents who will be held responsible for their correctness. Superintendents will send a Return Quarterly showing the night duty performed in Towns and other populous places, the first Return to be on the 24th June 1878. Officers when signing their names to any document or Return will write their Christian and Surname with Number Rank following, and always leave a margin in all official letters. Officers will always take their leggings as well as Capes, when going on duty at Meetings etc, during inclement weather. Superintendents will see that all instructions for keeping Books are entered in each Book as directed in General Order 25th March 1875. The Order of the 7th March last respecting officers getting up evidence also applies for all cases of Felonies and Misdemeanours. In consequence of the smart appearance of Hyde, each man will be allowed one day's extra leave of absence to visit friends as circumstances will allow. Superintendents will see that greater care is exercised in searching prisoners as it was discovered that at Crewe Station the inside of the Cell Doors were marked over in pencil with indecent and obscene words. The Chief Constable regretted to find at the recent Inspection that officers had paid but little attention to his wishes as expressed in General Order 26th February last in cordially cooperating with him in securing the continued efficiency of the force, but that great laxity in the performance of duties was apparent in many Divisions he however trusts that all ranks will see the necessity of showing the greatest diligence and energy in their power , so that at the next Inspection it will be equally apparent that everyone has striven to do his best in serving the public, and increasing the usefulness of the Constabulary. Divisions stood in the following order in general appearance, cleanliness etc, and the Chief Constable hope that Superintendents will so emulate each other in these respects and instil such a feeling of pride in their men that at the next Inspection it will not be an easy matter for him to decide as to the order in which they should be placed on that occasion. 1st Hyde Division, 2nd Altrincham Division, 3rd Macclesfield Division, 4th Wirral Division, 5th Northwich Division, 6th Eddisbury Division, 7th Broxton Division, 8th Runcorn Division, 9th Nantwich Division, 10th Stockport Division. Chief Constables Office, Chester 29th May 1878 Adulteration Act. Inspectors will obtain a few samples of Violet Powder and send same to the Analyst. The Inspectors of Numbers 7 and 8 Divisions will commence working the above act on their Divisions as soon as possible. The following transfers will take place on or before the 14th proximo Rank and Name From Division To Division PC Wright 1 9 PC Charlesworth 9 1 PC Bythell 1 9 PC Hammersley 9 1 PC Fowles 2 4 PC Drysdale 4 2 PC Davies 2 9 PC Burr 9 7 PC Furness 3 Kingsley 3 Dunham PC Colfar 3 Dunham 3 Eaton PC Swann 3 Eaton 3 Kingsley PC Southern 3 1 PC Morgan 1 3 PC Lowe 4 8 PC Young 8 4 PC Percival 4 9 PC Latham 9 4 PC Harrison 5 8 PC Marshall 8 5 PC Wilcox 5 10 PC Turner 10 5 PC Byron 5 10 PC Martin 10 5 PC Miller 7 5 PC Parker 5 7 PC Barter 7 2 PC Thorley 4 2 PC Sheeham 4 7 PC Wood 7 4 The last two officers without delay. The allowance for removal will not exceed 1/3d per mile for married Sergeants and 1/- for married Constables no further allowance will be granted. Chief Constables Office, Chester 30th May 1878 The Chief Constable regrets very much to find a practice exists in the force, that whenever it is found necessary to remove Constables from one District to another, or as in a recent instance when he feels incumbent upon him to award punishment for disobedience of orders resort is at once made to the Magistrate or the general public to take up the supposed grievance of individual Constables and so bring pressure to bear upon his authority. It will be understood that any future attempts of this kind to defy legitimate authority will only lead to the services of a Constable being at once dispensed with, as the Chief Constable is too jealous of the reputation of the force to act hastily in dealing with cases brought to his notice. It must also be borne in mind that the fact of a public memorial being got up to retain an officer in a special district, must disqualify him for performing his duties afterward amongst people whose assistance he sought to further his wishes, it will be remembered that such an improper attempt to sway the Chief Constable's decision will never have the desired effect, therefore he earnestly hopes that he will not have occasion again to remind the Cheshire Constabulary that no one is better able to judge of what is to the advantage of each member of it than himself, after his connection with it. Obedience to orders will invariably add to the general comfort and song as they are attended to, no man need fear that the Chief Constable will not be the first to defend and encourage those serving under his command. Superintendents will explain this order to each of their officers and report to this officer that they have done so. Chief Constables Office, Chester 1st June 1878 The following detail of police will attend at Marbury Hall on the 12th and 13th instant at the Bazaar. 1 Sergeant and 5 PC's from Number 5 Division and 1 Sergeant and 5 PC's from Number 10 Division, three of the latter in plain clothes. Superintendents will acknowledge receipt of this order. Chief Constables Office, Chester 3rd June 1878 The Chief Constable will be absent from the County for a short time during which period the Deputy Chief Constable will act as Chief Constable. All correspondence will be sent to Head Quarters as usual. The following transfers will take place as early as possible Sergeant Plant from Number 8 to Number 9 Division and Sergeant Davies from Number 9 to Number 8 Division. Chief Constables Office, Chester 4th June 1878 The following detail of police will attend at the under mentioned places in Number 6 Division on Whit Monday on the 10th instant Number 1 Broxton Division 4 Constables, Number 3 Eddisbury Division 3 Constables. And Number 11 Reserve Division PC Morgan 1, Total 8 to meet at the New Brighton Toll Gate at 11am. Number 1 Broxton Division 2 Constables, Number 3 Eddisbury Division 2 Constables, and Number 4 Nantwich Division 6 Constables Total 10 Constables to meet at the New Brighton Landing Stage by first available train in the morning. Chief Constables Office, Chester 5th June 1878 The following detail of police will attend at Hookersbrook, Chester at 12 noon on Whit Monday for duty at a Festival there. Division Superintendents Inspectors Sergeants PC's 1 1 1 3 1 4 11 1 1 2 Totals 1 1 3 6 Chief Constables Office, Chester 7th June 1878 In reference to transfers ordered on the 29th ultimo the following alterations will be made, PC Morgan Number 1 Division to Number 4 Division to be stationed at Crewe, PC Latham from Number 4 to Number 3 Division to be stationed at Bunbury. A married man from Crewe will replace PC Leather at Worleston. Chief Constables Office, Chester 8th June 1878 The Constabulary will in future pay more attention to General Order Number 2 of the 2nd August 1874 and they are reminded that it is not part of their duty to act as porters at Assizes and Sessions, Superintendents will immediately report, whether amongst Constables of their own or other Divisions in writing to the Chief Constable any officer disobeying this order as he is determined to put a stop to such practice. Chief Constables Office, Chester 8th June 1878 The following officers are promoted to the rank of Acting Sergeants, PC William Leah Number 5 Division. PC H. Rhodes Number 10 Division and PC J. Morgan Number 11 Divisions. Chief Constables Office, Chester 11th June 1878 The following detail of police will attend at Beeston Festival on the 24th and 25th instant. Division Rank Name Other Total 1 Sergeant Palin. Acting Sergeant Large and 4 PC's 6 3 Sergeant Mayho and 1 Sergeant and 5 PC's 7 4 Sergeant Watson and 4 PC's 5 6 Inspector Hilton, Sergeant Clarke and 4 PC's 6 10 Sergeant Dean 1 11 Sergeant Atkin, Acting Sergeant Downes 2 Detectives Manchester, Chester and Liverpool 3 Total 30 Helmets and white gloves to be worn. Superintendents will acknowledge receipt of this order. Chief Constables Office, Chester 12th June 1878 The Chief Constable regrets to have to announce to the force the dismissal of PC Byron for writing or instigating others to write anonymous letters to injure PC Bradshaw of the same Division, and PC Wilcox Number 5 Division for insubordinate conduct and language to the Chief Constable when dismissing PC Byron, and warns all ranks against such a dastardly practice as sending anonymous letters to him. He wishes to impress upon every individual in the Cheshire Constabulary that except a good friendly feeling exists between its members, it is utterly impossible for the duties devolving upon it being honestly and faithfully performed towards the public. The Chief Constable trusts to the older officers comprising the force to render him their faithful cooperation in suppressing acts of treachery as where it is it is impossible that discipline can be maintained in the honest discharge of police duties. PC Harrison of Number 5 Division is deprived of Merit Badge and pay for concealing important information in a case of suspected Arson at Davenham on the 7th ultimo. Superintendents will send in a monthly certificate that all men of their Divisions have had their hair properly cut during the month Superintendents will not charge in their Accounts in future any excess of the ordinary special Duty allowance except by special authority from this office. This order will be read to every man in the force. Chief Constables Office, Chester 14th June 1878 Superintendent Cooper will be transferred from Macclesfield to Altrincham Division and take charge from the 25th instant. Chief Constables Office, Chester 18th June 1878 The following transfers will take place at once, PC Stockton from Reserve Division to Northwich Division and PC Mault from Northwich to Reserve Division. Chief Constables Office, Chester 18th June 1878 The following additional Columns will in future be entered in the Return of Officers recommended for Promotion" "Married or Single", "Date of Joining the Force", "Age", "Height" and all officers at their highest rate of pay will be omitted. Superintendents will also be careful to enter the proper rate of pay including Merit Class Pay and M.C. being placed before the rank and not as in some cases the amount of "Pay and Boot Money" and in others "Balance of Pay received" The following promotions will take place from the 25th instant Division Rank and Name New Rate 8 Superintendent Cooper £150 per annum Inspector Williamson £110 per annum 3 Sergeant Hardern 32/8d 5 Sergeant Gunn 32/8d 6 Sergeant Shore 32/8d 8 Sergeant Shaw 32/8d 11 Sergeant Meredith 31/6d 2 Acting Sergeant Shaw 29/2d 7 Acting Sergeant Britton 29/2d 2 PC Arthern 29/2d 9 PC Bythell 28/- 2 PC Beaney 28/- 3 PC Colfar 28/- 3 PC Swann 28/- 4 PC Carpenter 28/- 5 PC Sherwin 28/- 5 PC Woodrow 28/- 5 PC Whitehead 28/- 5 PC Croghan 28/- 6 PC James 28/- 7 PC Crabb 28/- 7 PC Waring 28/- 7 PC Birtles 28/- 7 PC T. Williams 28/- 7 PC Moss 28/- 5 PC Miller 28/- 8 PC Breese 28/- 8 PC Moss 28/- 8 PC Wilkins 28/- 8 PC Jackson 28/- 5 PC Marshall 28/- 10 PC Wynne 28/- 11 Acting Sergeant Stacey 28/- 1 PC Reece 26/10d 1 PC Pearce 26/10d 2 PC E. Jones 26/10d 2 PC Woolley 26/10d 2 PC Worth 26/10d 2 PC Parrott 26/10d 2 PC Lancelotte 26/10d 3 PC Lymer 26/10d 3 PC Richardson 26/10d 4 PC Warburton 26/10d 4 PC Drury 26/10d 5 PC Blair 26/10d 4 PC Cross 26/10d 6 PC McGurk 26/10d 6 PC Goudie 26/10d 6 PC Lowndes 26/10d 6 PC T. Burgess 26/10d 6 PC McNiell 26/10d 6 PC Ford 26/10d 7 PC Davies 26/10d 7 PC Cummings 26/10d 1 PC Hammersley 26/10d 7 PC J. Cooper 26/10d 1 PC Charlesworth 26/10d 9 PC Adams 26/10d 10 Acting Sergeant Rhodes 26/10d 10 PC Bates 26/10d 6 PC Badrick 26/10d 1 PC Smith 25/8d 2 PC S. G. Cooper 25/8d 2 PC J. Basnett 25/8d 2 PC Dutton 25/8d 2 PC Frankton 25/8d 4 PC Neild 25/8d 4 PC Perrin 25/8d 4 PC Skally 25/8d 4 PC Gibson 25/8d 4 PC Hamlett 25/8d 7 PC Muir 25/8d 6 PC Costello 25/8d 7 PC Halliday 25/8d 6 PC Thompson 25/8d 8 PC H. Williams 25/8d 7 PC Ratcliffe 25/8d 2 PC Slicer 25/8d 8 PC Alexander 25/8d 10 PC Bossons 25/8d 2 PC Poole 24/6d 3 PC Crowder 24/6d 3 PC Reade 24/6d 4 PC Pugh 24/6d 4 PC Hunt 24/6d 5 PC White 24/6d 5 PC W. Basnett 24/6d 6 PC Smith 24/6d 6 PC Crank 24/6d 7 PC Williamson 24/6d 9 PC Walker 24/6d 8 PC Prince 24/6d 10 PC Coathup 24/6d 10 PC Royle 24/6d 10 PC Bowyer 24/6d 11 PC Hallsworth 24/6d Chief Constables Office, Chester 20th June 1878 The following transfers will take place on the 25th instant, PC William Bassett from Number 5 to Number 2 Division. PC S.J. Cooper from Number 2 to Number 5 Division. Chief Constables Office, Chester 25th June 1878 All uniform clothing when not in use will be kept neatly folded up in a box and Superintendents will report to this officer that each officer is in possession of a box for this purpose. Sergeant Shaw Number 8 Division will revert to the pay of 31/6d per week for not keeping his clothing in good order. Acting Sergeant Harrington will be transferred to Macclesfield and PC Yearsley to Altrincham on such days as may be arranged. Superintendents will report the number of Sign Boards they have in their Divisions and whether they are all fixed in conspicuous places on Constables residences. Sergeants of Sections will report whether the notices re Tramps have been posted up in each Township, and Superintendents will be held responsible that this is done. Superintendents will not send anymore Candidates for appointment until further orders, and in future only those that are 5' 9" in height, without boots. In sending in reports against officers for drunkenness the charge will be entered as follows "Drunk on night duty in..............Street..................at .......................pm on the ........................instant". Not as usually sent "Under the influence of drink and unfit for duty as reported by Sergeant see particulars annexed. Chief Constables Office, Chester 29th June 1878 Three Constables will be transferred from Number 6 Division from this date as follows 1 Constable (Single man) to Number 10 Division and 2 Constables (Single men) to Number 11 Division. Chief Constables Office, Chester 2nd July 1878 The following appointments will take place on the under mentioned dates Captain Francis George Little, to be Superintendent Altrincham Division at £130 per annum. Captain Edward George Lingard to be Superintendent of Macclesfield Division on the 16th instant at £130 per annum. Superintendent Cooper will be transferred from Macclesfield Division to Nantwich Division on the 16th instant. On the recommendation of the Chief Constable Superintendent Aston, Altrincham Division is discharged from the 1st instant on a Superannuation Allowance of £110 per annum. The Widow of the late Sergeant Thomas Nield will receive at Gratuity of £88 out of the Superannuation fund. Acting Sergeant Harrison Number 7 Division to be Sergeant at 30/4d per week vice resignation of Sergeant Thomas Lowe. Sergeant Porter is transferred from Eddisbury Division to Altrincham Division to be stationed at Sale. Acting Sergeant Large Broxton Division is promoted Sergeant at 30/4d per week and will be stationed at Tarporley. Merit Class PC Proudlove Number 7 Division to be Acting Sergeant to be stationed at Farndon vice promotion of PC Large. PC S. G. Cooper Number 5 Division to be Acting Sergeant and transferred to Knutsford. PC J. Basnett to be transferred to Number 5 Division from Peover. PC Eastwood to be removed to Peover. Acting Sergeant Morgan Reserve will receive increase in pay to 25/8d per week from the 25th ultimo. Chief Constables Office, Chester 4th July 1878 Officers attending Session's as per General Order of the 7th March will parade for inspection by the Chief Constable a quarter of an hour before the opening of the Court. Superintendents when visiting out stations will enter date of same in the Section Occurrence Book and sign their name to the entry. Sergeants in future will wear three chevrons. Inspectors under the Adulteration Act will obtain samples of Ale and Beer for analysis and report results to this office. The Chief Constable having found men wearing new clothing, Superintendents will report whether they read General Order 18th March last respecting same and warns all ranks of the Constabulary that any disobedience of orders issued by him will subject them to instant dismissal, and he holds Superintendents responsible that all orders are read to the men and that they will personally by constant enquiry and observation see that they are carried out, otherwise he will be compelled to take serious notice of such neglect of duty. Acting Sergeant Leah Number 5 Division will receive increase of pay to 25/8d per week from the 6th instant. Chief Constables Office, Chester 9th July 1878 The day and date of removals of Constables from one station to another must be notified to this officer by Superintendents of Divisions immediately on such removals taking place, much inconvenience having been experienced at Headquarters in consequence of this not having been done. In future Superintendents will immediately report when a District is vacant and they will be held responsible that such Districts are properly watched by other Constables until a resident officer is sent. Sergeant John Davies having been found unfit for the responsible duties of his office will revert to the rank and pay of 1st class Constable at 28/- per week and be stationed at Wilmslow. Superintendents and other, when communications are not of a private nature will make use of post cards so as to reduce the charge for postage. PC Usher of Number 7 Division to be Acting Sergeant. PC Turner Number 7 Division will be stationed at Compstall. PC Barker Number 7 Division is dismissed the force and fined 10/- for drunkenness. The notices that men are wanted and that there are vacancies in the force will be posted up at each station. Chief Constables Office, Chester 10th July 1878 Superintendent Saxton being still unfit for service after three months sick leave the Chief Constable in the hope that he will be able to resume his duties extends such leave from the 16th instant to the 29th September next during which period Superintendent Saxton will be kept on the strength of the force as a Supernumerary without pay. Chief Constables Office, Chester 16th July 1878 The following transfers will take place on such days may be arranged Rank and Name Old Division New Division PC Kavanagh 5 7 PC Parrott 2 7 PC Coleburn 6 7 PC Moss (postponed) 8 7 Acting Sergeant Blythen 9 7 PC Green 11 6 PC Proctor 11 8 PC Senior 7 8 PC Morris 7 8 PC Williams 7 9 To be Acting Sergeant and Divisional Clerk at Stockport Acting Sergeant McCallen 6 5 Duties in the Superintendent's Office Acting Sergeant Leah 3 5 Hartford Superintendent Cooper having interceded on behalf of late Sergeant 58 John Davies, the Chief Constable in consideration of his long service reappoints him to Sergeant at 30/4d per week, in the hope that he will in future endeavour more earnestly to carry out his duties otherwise he must not look for further consideration. Superintendents will use their own discretion in removing men in their Divisions reporting same to this office. Superintendents will send in their monthly Distribution Returns by adding additional columns, the information showing the Nationality of their men and in the case of married men the number of children. Chief Constables Office, Chester 22nd July 1878 The order of the 16th instant in relation to the transfer of Acting Sergeant McCallen is cancelled and PC Welch will be removed from Number 6 to Number 5 Division. Chief Constables Office, Chester 23rd July 1878 PC Rutter will be transferred from Number 9 to Number 8 Division re resignation of PC Jackson. Acting Sergeant McCallen from Number 6 to Number 4 Division to carryout duties in the Superintendent's Office at once. Chief Constables Office, Chester 24th July 1878 The following appointments will take place from this date Inspector Samuel Williamson Detective Inspector at Headquarters to the Honory rank of Chief Inspector. To be Acting Inspectors at 32/8d per week , Sergeant Wood Number 7 Division, Sergeant Plant Number 9 Division, Sergeant Large Number 3 Division and Sergeant Meredith Number 11 Division. Sergeant Henry Clifton from the 23rd Regiment is appointed Sergeant and Drill Instructor with the rank of Sergeant Major at 30/4d per week, vice Cashin Number 6 Division who is allowed to revert to the rank of Acting Sergeant at 28/- per week in the Detective Department at Headquarters. Officers Commanding Divisions are requested to see that he is obeyed as such and treated with the respect due to his position by all ranks under their command as Sergeant Major of the Force. The following transfers will take place on the 9th proximo Rank and Name Old Division New Division Acting Inspector Walker 7 8 stationed at Wilmslow Sergeant Meredith 11 1 stationed at Malpas Sergeant Bithell 1 5 stationed at Winsford and draw pay from Reserve Sergeant Bradshaw 8 10 stationed at Great Budworth Sergeant Dean 10 7 From the 1st proximo the Divisions will stand in the following and will be designated as follows. Designation Division A Hyde B Stockport C Macclesfield D Altrincham E Northwich Designation Division F Runcorn G Eddisbury H Nantwich J Broxton K Wirral L Reserve Whenever a member of the force is injured on duty, a Medical certificate showing the nature and extent of such will always be sent with a report of the occurrence through the officer commanding the Division. Candidates must fill up in their own handwriting the application form for admission to the force. Chief Constables Office, Chester 24th July 1878 The Superintendent in charge of Divisions will make known to the Sergeants and Constables under their Command that they are prohibited from wearing uniform waistcoats with either collar or lapels as it is impossible to expect any uniform coat to fit properly when such are worn, proper steps are to be taken to see that this prohibition is not infringed. It being important to keep an accurate record of the leave of absence granted to Sergeants and Constables the following rules on the subject are to be strictly adhered to 1 Every Pass is to be made out on the prescribed printed form, now furnished from this office which will be filled up in the handwriting of the Constable applying for leave of absence. 2 It is recommended by the Superintendent after being submitted by the Sergeant of the Constables Section only if they are of the opinion that the applicant is deserving of the indulgence and can be spared, anything to the contrary must be stated. 3 The date of the last leave of absence granted to the applicant is to be noted on the back of the pass, Constables going on pass to other Divisions of this County will report themselves at the Divisional Office without delay after their arrival when practicable. 4 The Pass is to be sent to Headquarters for signature stamping and entering before it can become available. 5 After the expiration of the Pass it is to be returned to Headquarters by first convenient opportunity but it is not to be inserted in or fastened to any other document. 6 When the Pass has been granted by a Superintendent in great urgency such as the death or the severe illness of a relation and there has not been time to observe the above named rules it must be forwarded to Headquarters as mentioned in the last paragraph. 7 The proper mode of application for leave of absence from the Superior Officers of the Force is in a form of letter addressed to the Chief Constable on a half sheet of foolscap paper with the usual margin . Officers will be good enough to mention at the foot of such letter the address which will find them, during their absence in case of need. 8 As there is strong reason for believing that the Drill of the force has been neglected in some of the Divisions and as there can be no doubt that a competent knowledge of the first principles of Company Drill add much to the efficiency of the force, the Officers in charge of the Divisions generally but more especially those who have suffered to grow lax in this matter are hereby called upon to pay more attention to the subject and it is hoped that at the next visit of Her Majesty's Inspector of Constabulary the reputation of the force, which stands so high as in every other respect will not be suffered to become lowered in this. In order to forward this object, and for the instruction and guidance of those Officers and Sergeants who have not had much experience in Drill, the Chief Constable has complied a Drill Manual for the instruction of the force. This is County property and to be considered part of the equipment and to be produced for the inspection of the Chief Constable whenever required. It is to be distinctly understood that no drill and no words of command except those in use at the present day as set forth in the "Field Exercise for Infantry" will be allowed. The Officers in charge of Divisions will make it known to those under their Command that for the future among other qualifications a competent knowledge of Company Drill will be required of those Sergeants and Constables who aspire to further promotion. Any Constable being desirous of becoming possessed of a Drill Manual can have it on application through his Superintendent to the Chief Clerk and on payment of as there appears to exist a want of uniformity in saluting. Superintendents of Divisions are requested to give this matter their prompt attention as laid down in Part (1) in the "Field Exercise for Infantry". Until further Orders with a view to improving the Drill and appearance of the force the Superintendents will muster the whole of their men under their respective commands for pay, drill as some central point in their Divisions once a month. The Chief Constable expects that the greatest possible attention will be paid to the Drill and every encouragement will be held out by Superintendents to induce all under his Command to become efficient in this important subject. 1 All Communications of any sort whatever relating to subjects connected with the service addressed to Headquarters are to be considered as addressed to the Chief Constable and should be directed accordingly. 2 When the Chief Constable is not absent from the County all communications are to be addressed to him and are to be directed thus 'To The Chief Constable of Cheshire, Constabulary Office, Chester.' 3 In communicating officially with or forwarding returns or despatches to Headquarters names are not to be mentioned in the direction, but the official designation only 'The Chief Clerk, Constabulary Office, Chester' or 'The Chief Inspector, Constabulary Officer, Chester' 4 Should it be desired to address a communication to the Chief Constable or any other Officer at Headquarters, on a subject intended only for the eye of the person addressed, the direction should mention the name thus 'To Captain Arrowsmith, Constabulary Office, Chester' or 'To Chief Superintendent Oldmeadow, Constabulary Officer, Chester.' To prevent the possibility of mistakes in such cases, the cover may further be marked 'Private' in the left hand top corner. 5 Every official letter must be written on foolscap and be dated in the right hand top corner of the paper thus 'Cheshire Constabulary,.................Division, Hyde............187.... and the address should be written in the left hand bottom corner of the 1st page, but when on note paper, after the signature of the writer who will invariably state his rank after his Christian and Surname in all official correspondence. 6 All official letters are to be copied in the Divisional Letter Book and commencing on the 1st proximo will be numbered from one upwards in the left hand top corner. 7 With a view of keeping postage within bounds as much as possible post cards may be used when the interests of the service allow it and Superintendents will when time is at no object forward their correspondence and applications relating to their Divisions with their weekly pay list so as to reach Headquarters each Monday morning, but in cases of emergency the transmission of returns and correspondence will be made without unnecessary delay. Communications to Head of other Forces will be addressed 'The Chief Constable ...............Borough Police, or The Superintendent, County Constabulary'. 8 The officers in charge of Divisions will in future furnish a weekly sick report to Headquarters upon a return similar to the subjoined form and their attention is requested to General Order 30th November 1872. 9 As there is some reason to fear that Warrants remaining unexecuted are sometimes lost sight of and forgotten. A Return according to the form herewith issued for the future will be made to the Chief Constable's Office monthly. This Return will henceforth be due at Headquarters on the beginning of each month, being made up to the last day of the preceding month. 10 Such of the Superintendents as may have any alterations to suggest in the arrangement of the Beats or hours of the day or night duty in their respective commands with a view to improve the efficiency of the force will have the goodness to communicate the same to Headquarters as soon as possible. The Chief Constable being of the opinion that a five hour night and a four hour day duty scheme would not only be beneficial to the public but improve the vigilance of the force also 11 Immediately on the conclusion of cases at the Assizes and Sessions held at Chester Castle, Constables will attend at Headquarters officer and enter in the book for that purpose the result. 12 A recent instance having occurred of a Constable quitting his beat for the purpose of assisting members of other police forces to recapture a prisoner and make enquiries thereof, it must be borne in mind that no Constable in this force is on any account to quit his station or beat for such purposes without in the first instance obtaining the permission of a superior officer to do so, to whom he will on his return report the result of such enquiries , when he will be instructed the hour he is expected to resume his regular tour of duty. Chief Constables Office, Chester 29th July 1878 The following transfers will take place on such days as may be arranged Rank Name Old Division New Division PC Brereton C G PC Jones D K PC Withers D K Acting Sergeant Carpenter H K PC Morris A C PC's Jones and Withers will be removed at their own expense and Acting Sergeant Carpenter will receive pay increase from K Division from the 27th inclusive. Chief Constables Office, Chester 30th July 1878 The following detail of police will attend the Chester Regatta at 12 noon on the 2nd proximo Rank and Name Division PC Southern, PC Smith PC Reece 1 Acting Sergeant Cooper, PC Marshall 2 Superintendent Cooper, PC Nield PC Gibson 4 Acting Sergeant Leah 5 Sergeant Roche 6 Acting Inspector Wood, Acting Sergeant Britton 7 Acting Inspector Plant 9 Chief Inspector Williamson, Acting Inspector Meredith 11 Total Officers 15 White Gloves and Caps to be worn, Superintendent Cooper will be in charge. Superintendents will acknowledge receipt of this order. Chief Constables Office, Chester 1st August 1878 The transfer of Acting Inspector Walker from Number 7and Sergeant Dean from Number 10 Divisions as ordered in General Order 24th ultimo is cancelled and Sergeant Dean will be transferred to Number 8 Division to be stationed at Wilmslow. PC Kavanagh A Division is dismissed from the force for being absent without leave. Chief Constables Office, Chester 2nd August 1878 Complaints have been made that Gypsies are permitted to encamp on the sides of the roads and other places; the Chief Constable desires that Superintendents will take immediate steps to stop this practice and to report any Constable neglecting this important duty, legal proceedings will be taken against all offenders of this class. The Chief Constable will make his half yearly Inspection of the force in Clothing and Caps as follows Division Location Date and Time B Hazel Grove, 10am 13th August 1878 A Hyde 10am 14th August 1878 C Macclesfield 10am 15th August 1878 D Altrincham 10am 20th August 1878 E Middlewich 10am 21st August 1878 F Daresbury 10am 22nd August 1878 K New Ferry 10am 27th August 1878 G Tarporley 3pm 28th August 1878 J Tattenhall 10am 28th August 1878 H Nantwich 10am 29th August 1878 All Divisional Office and Constables Books will be in readiness for his perusal but he does not require the production of either clothing or appointments beyond those in actual use. Books will not be taken from F, G, J and K Divisions, but will be inspected at a future time to be hereafter notified. The Deputy Chief Constable will be good enough to attend the inspection of A, B, C and D Divisions. The Chief Constable has much pleasure in making known that the Cheshire Constabulary have subscribed the handsome of £35. 16s. 6d on behalf of the Widow and Children of the late Sergeant Nield. Chief Constables Office, Chester 2nd August 1878 Superintendent Cooper H Division will receive increase in pay to £165 per annum from the 1st instant. Chief Constables Office, Chester 3rd August 1878 The Chief Constable is exceedingly gratified with the vigilance displayed by PC Condon of K Division (Wirral) in discovering a fire and thereby preventing much damage to valuable property and he trusts that all members of the Constabulary will be equally on alert in reference to this duty. Chief Constables Office, Chester 3rd August 1878 The following detail of police will attend at Oulton Park Fete in G Division on the 15th instant in Caps and White Gloves, Superintendent Mayho will be in charge. Rank and Name Division 8 Constables G Acting Sergeant OKell D Acting Sergeant Fowler H PC Aston H Sergeant Harrison A Acting Sergeant Usher A PC Robinson B Total 14 Officers Superintendents will acknowledge the receipt of this order. Chief Constables Office, Chester 7th August 1878 PC Robinson B or Stockport Division is appointed Acting Sergeant. Chief Constables Office, Chester 9th August 1878 The Chief Constable has good reason for believing that some of the Constabulary have been guilty of a Breach of Confidence in giving information to the Press of matters connected with the force and hereby warns them most emphatically that such conduct, if repeated will be visited with his serious displeasure as it is impossible to uphold the discipline of the force if such improper use is made of their knowledge of matters relating to Constabulary and which in no way concern the public information of matters of public interest as heretofore may be given to reporters. The Chief Constable being anxious to employ Army Reserve men in the Constabulary in recognition of their valuable services to the Country in responding so admirably to the call of duty and for their good conduct whilst serving with their Regiments desires that Superintendents will, in the event of suitable candidates presenting themselves at once forward their testimonials to Headquarters. Sergeant Hollingworth of Altrincham Division to be Acting Inspector PC Worth to be Acting Sergeant and PC Morris Macclesfield Division to be Acting Sergeant. Superintendents being mounted officers will be allowed to wear Army regulation Steel Spurs on such occasions trousers will be fastened down with straps. Chief Constables Office, Chester 10th August 1878 PC W. R. Hewitt B Division is fined 10/- and dismissed from the force for drunkenness. Chief Constables Office, Chester 17th August 1878 It having been observed that men have acquired the habit of carrying thick walking sticks which gives them a very slovenly appearance, it is hereby ordered that the practice be discontinued an no Sergeant or Constable will in future be seen between the hours of five in the morning and eight o'clock in the evening carrying anything but a light stick or cane. The attention of the men is called to the custom of saluting; the salute with the hand is only given when passing or meeting Magistrates or Officers out of doors, when in an Officers Quarters or Officer the position of attention is quite sufficient mark of respect and it is not necessary to remove the cap or raise the hand to it while speaking, but only on entering and again on leaving. When giving evidence in Court before Magistrates, Constables will invariably stand respectfully as at attention. As the general appearance of the force is much wanting in uniformity owing to the various kinds of beards worn, it is found necessary to issue the following instructions 1 All ranks of the force are requested to cultivate the moustache. 2 The chin and the throat should be shaved clean, except by men who may be subject to throat infection, and the Chief Constable will be pleased to see a cheerful compliance with the fore going instructions, by all members of the force. 3 Members of the force when appearing in Court, either at Petty Sessions or elsewhere, will wear clean white gloves when about to be sworn as witnesses, the glove will be removed from the right hand for the purpose of taking the book, and after being sworn will be drawn on again and the position of attention resumed. Constables doing duty in Towns will always wear clean white gloves The existing practice of addressing letters thus To Mr...... "Superintendent or Inspector" of " Constabulary" or To "Mr Superintendent or Inspector" of "Constabulary" must at once be discontinued in official correspondence and the Superior Officers of the force will check this habit, the rule which must be strictly observed in official correspondence is that the individual to who the letter is written should be addressed by the title of his rank thus 1 To The Chief Constable of Cheshire. 2 To Superintendent Cheshire Constabulary. 3 To Sergeant, Cheshire Constabulary. 4 To Constable Cheshire Constabulary. In all official correspondence only one subject is to be touched upon in any letter or report. The Superintendent of the force will strictly follow this rule in all their official correspondence and will take pains carefully to instruct their Sergeants and men on the subject. Memorandum forms will not be sent to the Chief Constable but only used in corresponding with other Divisions. All ranks will in corresponding with each other do so in a respectful manner according to the rank of the person addressed and Superior Officers will be careful not to animadvert on any matter connected with other Divisions such only being the prerogative of the Chief Constable. Letters will commence Sir....... ending with Your obedient servant, the above form will be used in all official correspondence between all ranks. The attention of the Superintendents is called to the extremely slovenly specimens of writing which they often permit to pass through their hands in the shape of "Resignation", Applications for leave, to Marry etc, addressed by the Sergeants and Constables either to themselves or the Chief Constable. It is a matter of surprise and displeasure to the Chief Constable that a Superintendent should overlook any slovenly habit whatever on the part of the men under their command; for one slovenly habit, however apparently trifling only opens a door for others. For the future no documents from any of the Sergeants or Constables will be attended to at the Headquarters office unless written in the proper manner as prescribed for official correspondence on foolscap paper with one third margin, with rank and name of officer addressed in the left hand corner at the bottom. Very great inconvenience and trouble being experienced in the Headquarters Office through the irregularity and carelessness displayed by some Superintendents in transmitting their Pay Sheet Returns and other documents, the Chief Constable desires to call their attention of every Superintendent to the existing negligence and to request that the utmost punctuality and expedition be observed for the future in the transmission of all documents to Headquarters. Plain Clothes Parades being advisable will occasionally take place in order to ascertain that each man is in possession of a serviceable suit. The Superintendents are carefully and minutely to inspect the Prisoners Cells within their respective Divisions in the County once every fortnight and in all the Towns not less than once a week, the cells are to be kept scrupulously clean and sweet. Superintendents are on no account to wear plain clothes when their men are parading in uniform. The inspection of Clothing and appointments and personal neatness it is much to be feared in some Divisions is a mere matter of form if not entirely neglected, if a just opinion can be formed on the subject by the slovenly appearance of some of the men present when on duty and the condition in which some clothing is forwarded to the store by men taking their discharge or being dismissed. If all Superintendents really exercised an active supervision and moral influence over their Constables which is clearly their duty to do it would be quite impossible that there could exist in the force some of the slovenly men who are occasionally met by the Chief Constable. The man who is slovenly and untidy in his person and habits is rarely if ever, a smart man for duty. The energy activity and skill of officers Commanding Divisions are generally reflected in the personal smartness and efficiency of their men, it is to the interest then of the Superintendents to vie with each other in turning out the smartest men and the time must come when greater notice will be taken of the evil now touched upon, than the issuing of an order. In all cases of disturbance in Public Houses when the Constabulary have been called in by the Landlord or his assistants to quell the disturbance and eject disorderly persons, the Superintendents will take care that such Landlord is Summoned to attend as a Witness before the Magistrate when the case is brought up for hearing. The Title Acting Sergeant will be abolished and 2nd Class Sergeant substituted, in speaking to a Sergeant of that class he is to be called simply Sergeant, but when mentioned or addressed in writing and in signing themselves the term 2nd Class Sergeant is to be used, such Sergeants will in future wear two chevrons instead of one. Superintendents being desirous of being absent for a day's leave need not apply to the Chief Constable for same, but they will take care to make arrangements for the proper carrying on of all duties during such absence. The date of the inspection by the Chief Constable will be entered in all Divisional Books in red ink. Chief Constables Office, Chester 17th August 1878 The attention of the Superintendent of Broxton and Nantwich Division is called to the fact that Constables neglect to furnish the Coroner with the usual form of "Report when giving notice of sudden death ". In reference to monthly Drill directed to be held in General Order 24th ultimo it will be understood that only those men who can be assembled without expense or inconvenience to the public will attend. Chief Constables Office, Chester 17th August 1878 A Court of Enquiry will assemble at Hyde Police Station at 11am Wednesday 21st to investigate and report upon such matters as may be laid before it. President Major The Honourable C. E. Edwards DCC, Members Captain Little, Superintendent Steen. A Sergeant of Hyde Division will be detailed as orderly of the Court. Chief Constables Office, Chester 19th August 1878 PC Rolls will be transferred from Nantwich to Altrincham Division at once and PC Doyle from Reserve Division to Crewe vice PC Rolls. Chief Constables Office, Chester 22nd August 1878 The following Constables will receive increase in pay from 24th instant 2nd Class Sergeant Number 5 Division at 28/- per week. PC Barker Number 5 Division 26/- per week. Chief Constables Office, Chester 23rd August 1878 PC 224 Frederick Lowe, A Division to be 2nd Class Sergeant and to be stationed at Dukinfield. Chief Constables Office, Chester 26th August 1878 It having come to the knowledge of the Chief Constable that Constables attending Coroners Inquests are in the habit of including themselves on the Jury, he positively forbids such a practice, and cautions the Constabulary that any repetition of it may lead to their dismissal, after the Jury given their Verdict the duty of the Constable ceases, the Verdict of the Jury will at once be communicated to the Senior Officer of the district if in a Town, or to the Sergeant of the Constables Section without delay. 2nd Class Sergeant C. Bowden C Division is hereby reprimanded for being guilty of the above dereliction of duty on the 21st instant, which on his part was very irregular and degrading to the force at large. Superintendent John Wilson having applied to be relieved of his duties on the 31st instant in consequence of continued illness, the Chief Constable whilst he regrets the cause has much pleasure in acceding to the request of such a useful and valuable Officer, he will be kept on the strength of the force as Supernumerary without pay until the 29th proximo. The Chief Constable trusts that Superintendent Wilson will long enjoy the well earned pension he has recommended to be granted to him at the next October Sessions. PC Yearsley C Division is appointed 2nd Class Sergeant. Chief Constables Office, Chester 30th August 1878 PC John Dixon H Division is dismissed from the force for drunkenness and neglect of duty. Chief Constables Office, Chester 31st August 1878 Superintendents will take care that a Constable attends the Revising Barristers Courts at the several places named in the notices from the Clerk of the Peace's Office. Consequent upon the reduction of Wirral Division the following transfers will take place on the 1st instant Officer To Division Sergeant Major Clifton Northwich Division to be stationed at Northwich Sergeant Pennington Hyde Division to be stationed at Newton Sergeant Tew Nantwich Division to be stationed at Crewe Sergeant Gunn Northwich to Winsford to take charge of the station there. Superintendent Wilson having received permission to retire as Supernumerary, Captain George Harwood Cope will take charge of Broxton Division at £130 per annum from the 1st proximo. Chief Constables Office, Chester 2nd September 1878 Acting Inspector Naylor to be Inspector at Northwich at £95 per annum from the 1st instant. PC Woodcock will be transferred from A to L Division from this date. Chief Constables Office, Chester 3rd September 1878 The attention of Superintendents is called to the printed General Order of the 16th ultimo supplied to Divisions, and it will be distinctly understood that they are held responsible for the proper carrying out of the rules therein laid down, any deviation from or neglect of which will be visited with serious consequences. The Order will be fastened in all the Journals in such a manner as easily to be removed to another Book when required. Reports of cases will only be entered in the books of Constables making them and not in the Inspectors or Sergeants Books. Chief Constables Office, Chester 3rd September 1878 Acting Inspector Meredith and 2nd Class Sergeant Downes will receive the Merit Badge with pay from the 31st ultimo. PC McDonald to be 2nd Class Sergeant. Chief Constables Office, Chester 3rd September 1878 Consequent upon the reduction of K Division and increase in other Divisions as approved by the Right Honourable The Secretary of State, the following will be the establishment of the force from the 1st instant. CC Supt Ins Sgt PC Add PC Total Div Remarks 1 7 31 39 A 1 3 15 19 B 1 3 14 18 C 1 1 4 35 41 D 1 1 6 29 2 39 E 1 4 19 1 25 F 1 3 13 17 G 1 1 4 33 39 H 1 2 11 14 J 1 2 6 39 1 49 K Including 2 add PC for New Brighton during Summer 1 1 1 2 9 14 HQ and Reserve 1 11 6 44 248 4 314 Acting Inspectors will in future rank as 2nd Class Inspectors. Chief Constables Office, Chester 7th September 1878 The Chief Constable having completed his half yearly inspection, makes the following observations for future guidance 1 Several Divisions proper attention did not appear to be paid to the condition of the handcuffs being clean, Cap ornaments seldom cleaned, or removed, in some instances never touched, Waist belts appear to fit badly, hanging loosely and slovenly about the figure. 2 The appearance on parade of the Constables comprising B and J Divisions was much below average of other Divisions. Divisional Books were also very badly kept and the Chief Constable deems it necessary to warn all ranks in those Divisions, that in the event of his not finding a considerable improvement before the next inspection he will consider the advisability of reducing them to the lowest rate of pay and transferring them at their own expense to other Divisions. The general appearance of the force gave him great satisfaction as it showed a marked improvement since the last inspection, more especially was this evident in K Division, which presented a faultless appearance on parade reflecting great credit upon Superintendent Egerton for the manner in which he had looked after his men, the same attention was manifested in every department of his Division , clearly showing that he had been animated with a sincere desire to carry out the orders and wishes of the Chief Constable an example which he trusts to see emulated by all ranks of the force. Chief Constables Office, Chester 7th September 1878 PC Crabb will be transferred from A to L Division from this date. Chief Constables Office, Chester 9th September 1878 In consequence of Acting Superintendent Morris having earned a great want of judgement and abuse of power in allowing prisoners to be employed in cleaning the police station at Crewe, more especially in the case of a prisoner suffering from heart disease, and neglecting his duty in not visiting or seeing that the Constables of that section were properly visited for a considerable time. The Chief Constable feels compelled to order him to revert to the rank of Inspector at £100 per annum from the 1st instant as he is determined, as a warning to others to punish most severely any abuse of power on the part of any member of the Cheshire Constabulary. Chief Constables Office, Chester 10th September 1878 The new clothing may be taken into wear when attending Assizes, Sessions and Perry Sessions, or upon any other Special occasion as directed by Superintendents and the Chief Constable trusts that all ranks will endeavour to keep several articles in as good order as possible, so always to have a good second suit in their possession. Chief Constables Office, Chester 14th September 1878 The following detail of police will attend at the Tarporley Agricultural Society Show at Crewe on the 21st instant, Superintendent Cooper and 7 men from H Division and 2nd Class Sergeant Cooper and 3 men from D Division. Superintendent Cooper will be in charge, caps and white gloves will be worn. Chief Constables Office, Chester 16th September 1878 The Chief Constable regrets to announce the death of Superintendent John Wilson, all Superintendents and any other member of the Constabulary may attend as a last mark of respect for an old member of the force, his funeral in plain clothes at 3.30pm at Tattenhall tomorrow Tuesday 17th instant. Chief Constables Office, Chester 16th September 1878 The Chief Constable has again, notwithstanding the stringent orders already issued on the subject to punish a Constable for abusing his powers by illegally without a Warrant, coercing a man, from an adjoining County, to accompany him to the Crewe Police Station, and endeavouring to compel him to pay for the cost of a conveyance for this improper conduct PC Oldfield of H Division is, as a warning and caution to others, reduced to the rank and pay of a 3rd Class Constable at 24/6d per week. The Chief Constable has also to express his great displeasure at the conduct of Inspector Morris in not having properly instructed this Constable before sending him on an important duty which he, as his superior officer was bound to do. This order will be read at the next three weekly parades for pay. The Chief Constable again calls the attention of Inspector Morris to the exceedingly dirty state of Crewe Police Station which has not even had the objectionable pencil marks removed mentioned in General Order of the 27th May last and cautions him that any further neglect of duty on his part will lead to his removal from Crewe where he will be replaced by an officer who will consider it his paramount duty to obey all orders. Inspector Morris will report through his Superintendent to the Chief Constable that the station has been properly cleaned and the pencil marks removed off the cell doors. Chief Constables Office, Chester 18th September 1878 Coal and Gas As the condition of service do not provide the above for private consumption. It will be distinctly understood in future that only sufficient quantities for public use will be allowed and that in every charge made in the accounts it will be clearly shown on the voucher how much is deducted for private use with the date and quantity last supplied at each station, three tons for a large and two for other stations may be estimated for on the usual form, those estimates already sent in will be amended accordingly and the Chief Constable trusts all Lock-Up Keepers will exercise the greatest economy in this matter, and they will be held responsible that a proper supply for warming the cells is always kept at each station. Chief Constables Office, Chester 19th September 1878 The Chief Constable desires that Superintendents will impress upon all ranks in their Divisions that it is illegal to apprehend persons and allow them to be discharged by paying only a portion of Fine and Costs imposed, and he warns all the Constabulary against such acts in future as he has been compelled in a recent case at Hyde to order officers in the case to pay the amount unrecovered. Chief Constables Office, Chester 21st September 1878 Superintendents and all Lock-Up Keepers will be held responsible that the heating apparatus is always in use and kept burning whenever prisoners are confined in the cells, and Superintendents when visiting stations will be particular in ascertaining that this is carried out, reporting to the Chief Constable any neglect of this order. In order that proper accommodation may be provided for prisoners confined in County Lock-Ups, Superintendents will at once inspect all the rugs provided for their use, reporting whether they are in good condition, and send to the Chief Constable a requisition for any new ones required so that two rugs for each cell are always available. Lock-Up Keepers will be held responsible that these articles are not taken into use until actually wanted. Chief Constables Office, Chester 24th September 1878 The attention of the Constabulary is again called to General Order of the 27th August 1874 and the 8th March last, cautioning them against seeking to influence the Chief Constable to secure their promotion and he warns all so doing that it may lead to their being reduced instead, as he cannot allow his legitimate authority to be thus trifled with, this and other orders above mentioned will be read by Captain Little, Superintendent D Division at three successive weekly parades to the men of his Division. Chief Constables Office, Chester 7th September 1878 Sergeant Oldham of D Division having neglected his duty in not seeing that Summonses entrusted to him to have served were properly signed by Magistrates and thereby caused the case to be dismissed and entailed a large cost to the County for law expenses is hereby warned to be more careful in performing his duty and all members of the Constabulary will pay stricter attention to these matters. In reference to the notices dated July 1878 Superintendents will bear in mind that in future the age of Candidates must be between 21 and 25 instead of 21 and 34 as therein notified. Superintendents are reminded that General Order of the 18th instant relative to Coal and Gas, only applies to the Winter months, between October and April, but fires when actually required will be kept burning during the intervening period. Chief Constables Office, Chester 25th September 1878 PC Muller, H Division is dismissed the force for drunkenness. Chief Constables Office, Chester 28th September 1878 The Chief Constable having investigated a complaint by a resident at Crewe, against Inspector T. Morris for refusing him protection and assistance from the violence of a riotous number of persons who were damaging his property by throwing missiles etc, at his home and thereby shown a want of proper appreciation of the responsibilities of his position and regard to the claims of the public for protection, under such circumstances together with a general negligence in the performance of his duties as reported by his Superintendent is reduced to the rank of 2nd Class Inspector at 32/8d per week and will be removed to Romiley in B Division. Sergeants Tew's conduct in connection with the same case evinced a want of decency and proper regard for his position as a Sergeant in the Cheshire Constabulary in making use of a disgusting threat to the complainant, he is also reduced to the rank of 2nd Class Sergeant at 28/- per week and will be transferred to F Division vice the resignation of PC C. Coathup. 2nd Class Inspector J. Plant is promoted Inspector at £90 per annum from the 30th instant and will take charge of Crewe Station. Sergeant Dutton will reside there and find accommodation for Inspector Plant. Sergeant Bethell of J Division is transferred from the same date to H Division, vice reduction of Tew. 2nd Class Inspector Meredith from Reserve to J Division to be stationed at Malpas. The Memorandum in reference to wearing plain clothes dated 29th June last is hereby cancelled. As a great want of uniformity exists in the boots worn by the Constabulary in future Blucher Boots will always be worn when in uniform by Sergeants and Constables. Chief Constables Office, Chester 30th September 1878 The Chief Constable will shortly make an inspection of Horses and Carts in possession of Superintendents for public use and will expect to find that efficient animals, not aged or less than 1 hands in height available for riding or driving as in the event of attendance at large meetings Superintendents will be required to appear mounted officers, together with a good strong cart otherwise the allowance will be discontinued, this will not as a matter of course interfere with Superintendents keeping for their private use other horses and vehicles. Chief Constables Office, Chester 2nd October 1878 The removal of Sergeant Tew as directed in General Order of the 28th ultimo is cancelled. PC John White E Division is dismissed from the force for drunkenness. Chief Constables Office, Chester 8th October 1878 General Order of the 28th is hereby cancelled. In consideration of the past services of 2nd Class Inspector Morris, the Chief Constable has been induced to reinstate him to the rank of Inspector at £100 per annum in the hope that the leniency thus shown will have the effect of convincing all ranks in the force that he is anxious to act kindly to them under all circumstances but at the same time he is determined to enforce his orders and see that they are implicitly obeyed and that civility and kindness shall be shown the public in whatever rank or position in life they may be who apply for assistance and advice as by this means only can the high reputation of the Cheshire Constabulary has hitherto maintained be upheld. Inspector Morris will be borne on the strength of H Division and will be allowed sick leave to visit the sea side as advised by his Medical Attendant until further orders 2nd Class Sergeant Tew is also reinstated as Sergeant at 31/6d per week and will be transferred to B Division to be stationed at Romiley and the Chief Constable hopes that the consideration now shown will have the effect of inducing him to be more careful in his language, general conduct and future demeanour 2nd Class Inspector Plant will be transferred from B to H Division taking charge of Crewe Station as directed. Sergeant Bethell will be transferred from J to L Division and be stationed at Middlewich. Sergeant Jesses Leah E Division to be 2nd Class Inspector and be removed to Sandbach after 2nd Class Inspector Hulme is discharged. 2nd Class Inspector Meredith will be transferred from L to J Division and will be stationed at Malpas. The following promotions will take place from the 30th ultimo Division Rank and Name New Weekly Rate E Inspector Naylor £100 per annum C Sergeant Shaw 33/10d K Sergeant Casson 33/10d A Sergeant Harrison 32/8d B Sergeant Hone 32/8d E Sergeant Batty 32/8d E Sergeant Major Clifton 31/6d A PC Parrott 28/- A PC Davies 28/- A PC Jones 28/- A PC Cummings 28/- A PC Cooper 28/- B PC Wright 28/- C PC J. Bowden 28/- C PC Hindley 28/- D 2nd Class Sergeant Worth 28/- D PC Lancelotte 28/- E PC Welch 28/- E PC Higgins 28/- E PC Pearson 28/- E PC Blair 28/- F 2nd Class Sergeant Rhodes 28/- F PC Dalziel 28/- G PC Richardson 28/- G PC Lymer 28/- H PC Drury 28/- H PC Warburton 28/- H PC Ashford 28/- H PC Young 28/- J PC Reece 28/- J PC Charlesworth 28/- J PC Rowe 28/- J PC Hammersley 28/- J PC Pearce 28/- J PC Dowd 28/- K PC Jebb 28/- K PC Condon 28/- K PC Lowndes 28/- K PC McNiell 28/- K PC Campbell 28/- A PC Halliday 26/10d B PC Peers 26/10d C PC Alexander 26/10d C PC Williams 26/10d D PC G Marshall 26/10d D PC Riddlesworth 26/10d D PC J. Peers 26/10d D PC Osmond 26/10d D 2nd Class Sergeant Cooper 26/10d D PC Martyn 26/10d D PC Oakes 26/10d E PC Weaver 26/10d E PC Thomas 26/10d H PC Nield 26/10d H PC Gibson 26/10d H PC Skally 26/10d K PC Reilly 26/10d K PC Thompson 26/10d K PC Price 26/10d K PC Costello 26/10d K PC Dillon 26/10d A PC Williamson 25/8d F PC Bowyer 25/8d F PC Groat 25/8d G PC Crowder 25/8d G PC Reade 25/8d H PC Coughlin 25/8d J PC Chatterton 25/8d K PC Ollerenshaw 25/8d A PC Withers 24/6d A PC Lymer 24/6d B PC Cloney 24/6d B PC McCoy 24/6d C 2nd Class Sergeant Yearsley 24/6d C PC Proctor 24/6d D PC Rolls 24/6d D PC ODonnell 24/6d D PC Clewlow 24/6d E PC Stockton 24/6d F PC Hibbert 24/6d F PC Egerton 24/6d F PC Green 24/6d F PC Speed 24/6d G PC Fryer 24/6d G PC James 24/6d H PC Reilly 24/6d H PC Doyle 24/6d H PC Pickstock 24/6d H PC Hodgkinson 24/6d K PC Naughton 24/6d K PC Outram 24/6d K PC Hill 24/6d K PC Davies 24/6d K PC Jackson 24/6d L PC Sweeney 24/6d L 2nd Class Sergeant McDonald 24/6d Sergeant Roche K Division to be 2nd Class Inspector. Merit Class PC Garside and PC McMichael K Division to be 2nd Class Sergeants. PC Ashford to be transferred from H to E Division to be stationed at Middlewich. Chief Constables Office, Chester 10th October 1878 PC James Davies and PC Thomas Ratcliffe of A Division are reduced in pay the former to 26/10d per week and the latter to 24/6d per week for neglect of duty in permitting a prisoner to escape from their custody when conveying him to jail. Chief Constables Office, Chester 11th October 1878 Superintendents will immediately direct all men attending the ensuing Sessions at Knutsford and Chester to appear in new clothing with white gloves and caps. Leggings will be taken into wear on the 1st proximo with the winter clothing. Chief Constables Office, Chester 15th October 1878 The following officers will be discharged from the force on the 16th instant having been recommended by the Chief Constable for Superannuation Allowance. Superintendent Saxton £82. 10s 0d per annum, Superintendent Rowbottom £128. 6s 8d per annum. Superintendent Steen £110. 0s 0d per annum and 2nd Class Inspector Hulme £58. 0s 0d A Gratuity of £165 has also been recommended by the Chief Constable for the Widow and Children of the late Superintendent Wilson who was about to be discharged on a pension of £110 per annum and the Chief Constable is also pleased to make known that a further sum of upwards of £30 has been subscribed by the members of the Cheshire Constabulary Mutual Assurance Association, the invitation of which he has had pleasure to sanction and approve. The Chief Constable cannot allow Superintendents Steen and Rowbottom to sever their connection with the Force without placing upon record the high appreciation entertained by him of their long faithful and meritorious service in the Cheshire Constabulary, who for some years were well known in the old force and since the formation of the present one have been identified with it on many eventful occasions always upholding its dignity and reputation often in the face of arduous and great difficulties. Their honest and untiring diligence to do thoroughly correctly and ably whatever they undertook has made them well known and esteemed beyond the limits of this County. The Chief Constable has also great pleasure in placing upon record the highly meritorious and satisfactory manner in which Superintendent Saxton and 2nd Class Inspector Hulme have performed their duties and he will always be happy to hear of their success in after life. In Congratulating these old officers on receiving from the Court of Quarter Sessions on his recommendation their well earned Superannuation Allowances, the gratifying reward of their meritorious zeal and conduct in every position in which they have been placed of. The Chief Constable must express his own regret at parting with them a regret that he is sure all ranks of the force share with him. The tie of duty that has for so many years bound these officers with the Cheshire Constabulary is now severed but it is hoped that the friendship between the force and its retired members will still continue. In conclusion the Chief Constable assures them that it will always afford him very great gratification to meet them at all times and to hear of their continued prosperity in their retirement from active life, which he trusts they may be long spared to enjoy. The following promotions and transfers will take place from the 16th instant Rank Name Pay or Posting Deputy Chief Constable Captain The Honourable Cuthbert Ellison Edwardes. £150 per annum Captain Cope from J to H Division at £150 per annum Captain Little D Division to £150 per annum Captain Lingard C Division to £143 per annum Superintendent Cooper From H to E Division at £180 per annum Chief Inspector Williamson From L to F Division as Superintendent at £130 per annum 2nd Class Inspector Wood From A to L Division as Chief Inspector at £90 per annum 2nd Class Sergeant Henry Cooper From F to A Division as Sergeant at 30/4d per week and take charge of the Lock-Ups at Hyde 2nd Class Sergeant J Downes L Division to be Sergeant at 30/4d per week 2nd Class Sergeants Blythen and Dodd A Division to be Merit Class with Pay. PC Shaw F Division to receive increase in pay to 24/6d per week from 12th Chief Constables Office, Chester 15th October 1878 The Chief Constable was much pleased at the very smart appearance the men presented on parade at the recent Quarter Sessions which evinced the interest taken by all ranks in seconding his efforts to improve the general bearing of the force. The Chief Constable regrets to have to call the attention again of the Cheshire Constabulary to the fact that it is almost invariably the custom of some of its members when ordered to be removed from a District to endeavour (or allow others to do so) to bring outside influence to bear upon him to alter his decision, and hereby cautions all the force that such conduct if persisted in will lead to their summary dismissal, as he is fully determined not to allow such a practice in future as all such removals are well considered, before being ordered and only made for the benefit of the service and the public generally which must always be considered before the private interests and wishes of the men concerned. Superintendents will take every care to impress on all under them the consequences which will ensue from any infringement of this order, as the Chief Constable does not wish that any man should suffer at his hands through the ignorance of his orders, as he is determined to rid the force of all who do not cheerfully comply with them and who resort to such under hand practices, this order will be read and explained to every man in the force. Superintendents will ascertain and report to the Chief Constable whether each man is in possession of a good watch, as he fears that many lose sight of the importance of this matter. All Warrant Cards (not cases) will be sent to Headquarters. Mr J. W. Arrowsmith (late Inspector, Colonial Government, Mauritius Mounted Police) to be Superintendent of J Division at £130 per annum from the 16th instant. 2nd Class Sergeant McCallen will be transferred from H to E Division on such day as may be arranged. PC Wynne H Division to be 2nd Class Sergeant. Chief Constables Office, Chester 21st October 1878 On the recommendation of Superintendent Cooper the Chief Constable has on re-consideration of the case of PC J. Oldfield, H Division decided to take a lenient view of his conduct referred to in General Order 16th September and hereby reinstates him to the pay of 25/8d per week. 2nd Class Sergeant Leah, will be transferred to from E to F Division vice Cooper promoted. Chief Constables Office, Chester 29th October 1878 PC Samuel Perrin H Division is dismissed from the force for drunkenness and neglect of duty. Chief Constables Office, Chester 30th October 1878 PC Southern J Division to be 2nd Class Sergeant. By Order, G. E. Oldmeadow. Chief Clerk. Chief Constables Office, Chester 1st November 1878 In future Superintendents will make a special report of all repairs required immediately at Stations, as well as reporting same in the usual monthly Return. Chief Constables Office, Chester 1st November 1878 The Chief Constable desires that it will be distinctly understood that all members of the Cheshire Constabulary when attending Assizes or Sessions or upon any other duty out of the county, must always appear properly dressed in uniform. 2nd Class Sergeant ODonnell K Division is hereby reprimanded for not attending to this regulation and order. Chief Constables Office, Chester 2nd November 1878 The Chief Constable having observed from the Returns for the year ended 29th September last that there is a marked decrease of proceedings against Publican and Beer Sellers for offences under the Licensing Acts and against persons for Drunkenness and hereby directs the attention of Superintendents to this matter in order that no laxity may exist on the part of the Police in carrying out their important duties under these Acts. The Chief Constable hereby warns all the Constabulary against riding with drivers of Mail Carts as for this offence a driver has recently been dismissed in the Wirral Division by the Post Officer Authorities. Chief Constables Office, Chester 6th November 1878 As cases of sickness of late occurred in the force, and it would appear that in almost every instance severe cold has been the origin of the sickness it becomes necessary to take some steps to check what is so injurious alike to the health of the Constables and the interests of the service. There is no doubt that a practice has crept into the force for Sergeants and Constables to proceed on duty at night and in wet and uncertain weather without their Greatcoats and Capes, often without either. It is to be remembered that these articles are supplied to the force for the protection of the uniform, but it is a common thing to meet Constables at this time of the year wet through because they are too lazy or too thoughtless to carry that which the County has supplied them with to keep them dry and if which deprived of they would make a great complaint about. Constables are even met with walking in heavy rain with their capes coiled and slung on the belt and their tunic wet through. To put a stop to this reprehensible practice it is hereby ordered that between 1st November and the 1st April no Sergeant or Constable shall proceed on duty either by day or night without having his Cape with him, nor shall he ever within the above mentioned dates proceed or be allowed to proceed on night duty without his Greatcoat, any Sergeant or Constable detected disobeying this order will be immediately reported to Headquarters. Misconception exists in some of the Divisions as to the duties upon which 2nd Class Sergeants are to be employed, it must be distinctly understood that these Constables are only to perform Sergeants duties during the temporary absence through illness or other cause of the Sergeants belonging to their Sections of which they will take charge in their Sergeants absence. And on no account will 2nd Class Sergeants be detailed to perform the responsible duties of the highest rank, when an effective Sergeant is available, on other occasions 2nd Class Sergeants will be selected to patrol the most responsible Beat in their District any deviation from this rule will be considered as disobedience of Order and treated accordingly. The Chief Constable deeply regrets that Sergeant Josiah Harvey A Division appears to have forgotten his position as well as the respect at all times and under all circumstances due to the Magistracy and under these circumstances the Chief Constable finds it necessary to visit Sergeant Harvey with his severest displeasure as he is determined to stop any approaching disrespect in the force towards Supervision. Sergeant Harvey is reduced to 2nd Class Sergeant at 28/- per week and will be stationed at Newton. 2nd Class Sergeant Jonathan Dodd A Division having also been brought to the Chief Constables notice for inefficiency will be deprived of Merit Badge and revert to the rank of 1st Class Constable at 28/- per week and be stationed at Dukinfield. 2nd Class Sergeant William Britton A Division is promoted to Sergeant in same at 31/6d per week, vice reduction of Sergeant Harvey and will be stationed in the Hyde Lock-Up, vice Cooper transferred to Mottram. PC Tinsley A Division through sickness is allowed leave of absence from the 9th instant until the 26th proximo, he will be borne on the strength of Reserve Division as Supernumerary without pay and well able to resume his duty will be taken on the effective strength of the force. Superintendents will see that samples under the Adulteration of Food Act are sent to the Analyst as it appears from the last Returns that in some Divisions they have been remiss in this duty. PC Foden F Division to be 2nd Class Sergeant Chief Constables Office, Chester 8th November 1878 A Sergeant in full Police Uniform (presumed to belong to D Division) having been seen smoking a long pipe on the platform at Knutsford Railway Station between 7am and 8am on the 7th instant and to appears more conspicuous when the Station was crowded with passengers, the Chief Constable strictly forbids any of the Cheshire Constabulary smoking when in uniform in any public place and is determined to suppress this objectionable practice. Paragraph 1 of General Order of the 2nd May 1877 is hereby cancelled and increased vigilance will be used in looking after such cases. In reference to General Order of the 6th instant between the 1st November and 1st April Helmets and Leggings will be worn on night duty by all Sergeants and Constables. In future Staff Cases need not be worn during night duty by Sergeants and Constables, the Staff will be carried in the Greatcoat pocket for that purpose on such duty, by day it will be carried in the leather case as heretofore. New Leggings will be worn by day and old one at night. Chief Constables Office, Chester 13th November 1878 The Chief Constable having reason to suppose that some Sergeants take advantage of the smallest pretext as an excuse for not visiting their men during their tour of duty he reminds Superintendents that such a grave omission of this important duty has already led to a fatal termination as evinced in the case of the Murder of the late PC Green in February 1873. The Chief Constable requests that Superintendents will take such steps as will ensure their men being regularly visited by day and by night should the Sergeant of the Section be unable to do so, then this duty will be performed by the 2nd Class Sergeant, and in the vent of there not being one, by the oldest Constable in the Section, but with ordinary zeal for the service, the latter plan need not be frequently resorted to. Superintendents will report any deviation from this Order without delay to the Chief Constable who hopes they will exercise the utmost vigilance in enforcing it. In future the stoppages for sickness as laid down in scale of pay issued with General Order 30th November 1872 must be rightly enforced except in cases previously sanctioned by the Chief Constable, non compliance of this order will necessitate the Weekly Pay Sheet being returned to the Superintendents for correction and the Chief Constable will require from him an explanation of this neglect of duty. The following transfers will take place as early as can be conveniently arranged , Sergeant Gibson from A to B Division and Sergeant Hone from B to A Division, the former to be stationed at Hazel Grove and the latter at Dukinfield. PC Thomas Reece J Division is reduced to 2nd Class PC at 26/10d per week for improperly releasing a prisoner given into his custody for night Poaching on the 2nd instant. It must be generally known throughout the force that no police officer can do so without taking the prisoner before a Magistrate as otherwise they make themselves liable to a Civil Action for false imprisonment. PC Thomas James will be transferred from H to D Division at his own expense and be stationed at Altrincham. Chief Constables Office, Chester 16th November 1878 Sergeant Oldham D Division having been reported by his Superintendent For a series of offences against Discipline, and the following charges have been proved against him 1st General neglect of duty in not visiting the men of his Section by day and night in accordance with the rules of the service. 2nd Highly improper conduct in entering the house of one Samuel Bennett at Knutsford, drinking and associating therein with PC Basnett and PC Oakes during their tour of duty on the night of the 2nd November last thereby permitting themselves to neglect their duties. 3rd Neglect of duty in failing to make enquiries about a report to his Superintendent, the fact that PC40 Eastwood had been drinking in a public house on the night of the 24th day of October 1878, after the same had come to his knowledge. 1 If the Superior Officers of a large force do not set the example by strict obedience to the rules and regulations of the service it is impossible that they can look for either the respect or obedience of their subordinates an inattention to regulations on the part of a Sergeant to his men, in setting an example to those under his orders, for which he will be to blame should they imitate him. 2 Sergeant Oldham in drinking with two young Constables in a private house during their tour of duty, showed himself strangely and blamably forgetful of his own position in the force. He should recollect that as a Sergeant he fills a certain position and Superior rank and that although there is no occasion for anything like assumption or superciliousness in the intercourse of a Sergeant with the men under him, yet if he means to enjoy the confidence of his Superiors and to associate on equal terms with his brother Sergeants he must be mindful to keep up to their level. 3 In habitually neglecting to visit his men as frequently as the rules of the Service requires, Sergeant Oldham has evinced a great disregard for the efficiency of those placed under him, as well as a proper zeal for the force, and it was with very great regret and surprise the Chief Constable on examining Sergeant Oldham's Duty Books perceived that such laxity could possibly exist under so smart and efficient officer as Captain Little. Superintendents of Divisions will be most careful to bring to notice of the Chief Constable any want of attention to duties or zeal for the service, they may discover in their subordinates as the Chief Constable is determined to dispense with the service of inefficient men. Under all these circumstances the Chief Constable finds it necessary to visit Sergeant Oldham's conduct with displeasure and though dismissal from the force would not be too great a punishment for his misconduct, taking into consideration his sixteen years of public service, the Chief Constable has determined after mature consideration to deal as leniently with him as the interests of the public and the service would appear to justify. He Sergeant Oldham, therefore is hereby severely reprimanded, deprived of his Merit Badge with Pay, reduced to the grade of Sergeant at 30.4d per week and removed to another Division, reduction to take effect from this date. The Chief Constable trusts that the breaches of regulations committed by Sergeant Oldham may never be repeated by him and should his future conduct in the performance of his duties regain confidence, he may be restored to his old position. The Chief Constable has reason to believe that a practice is being introduced for Sergeants and Constables to enter Public Houses on their own Districts for the purpose of drinking therein, he hereby warns the force that such a habit is entirely opposed to the position of a Police Officer and directs that it be immediately discontinued , refreshment in the shape of liquor had better be partaken of at meal hours, by members of the force with their families, and when their duties require their presence in Public Houses on no account are they to partake of drink from any person, but firmly decline to accept it. Complaints have reached this office that in the country districts persons are in the habit of riding on the footpaths to the danger of foot passengers. Superintendents will warn their men to take steps to abate this habit, as people's lives cannot be jeopardized by a continuance of such an irregularity. The following transfers will take place without delay 2nd Class Inspector P. Roche from K to D Division, to be stationed at Knutsford. Sergeant J. Handford from F to K Division and to be stationed at Sutton. Sergeant Alfred Oldham from D to F Division and be stationed at Runcorn (Cancelled). PC Goudie C Division is appointed 2nd Class Sergeant. The transfer of PC James to D Division is cancelled and he will be removed to K Division. Chief Constables Office, Chester 19th November 1878 PC Eastwood D Division is reduced to the rank of 2nd Class Constable at 26/10d per week for neglect of duty and drinking in a Public House during his hours of duty. In future the Cape, when not in use, will be worn neatly folded up in a roll over the left shoulder, fastened with a cape strap resting on the right hip, the whistle and chain to hang over the cape in front. Chief Constables Office, Chester 22nd November 1878 After the Adjourned Sessions the 27th instant Superintendents will pay over to the County Treasurer the balances due to the County to the 29th September last in the following Accounts, Pedlars, Weights and Measures, Adulteration, Cattle Diseases and in future after each Adjournment Sessions. Superintendents will be held responsible for all monies received for Sale of Cattle Slaughtered, and all Inspectors will immediately on receipt of same pay the amount to their Superintendents. In future Superintendents will after stating nature of offence in the Charge and Summons Books, enter Date of Offence, Township in which committed as follows "Wilful damage to a gate to the value of 1/- at Acton on the 15th November 1878" or "Drunk and Disorderly at Dukinfield on the 7th November 1878" or "Stealing 1 Spade value 3/- and 1 Lamp value 2/- the property of J. Dutton at Comberbach on the 7th November 1878" PC Gosling K Division to be 2nd Class Sergeant and be stationed in the Neston Section. Adulteration of food Act, as their appears to be some doubt existing whether a conviction can be obtained under the above act, in consequence of a recent decision by the Lord Chief Justice of England that Inspectors were not prejudiced as did not purchase articles for their own use, the Chief Constable desires that Inspectors will in future retain a portion of each sample for their own consumption, so as to enable them to state in evidence that such an article if found to be adulterated was to their prejudice and this prevents the Act becoming a dead letter. In future the Return of Unexecuted Warrants will be sent in half yearly commencing on the 1st January 1879 a list of same invariably being kept handing up in the Headquarters office of each Division. Chief Constables Office, Chester 22nd November 1878 The Weekly Returns of Superintendents Night visits and Sick Reports must be sent so as to reach this office every Monday morning with the Weekly Pay Sheets. Chief Constables Office, Chester 25th November 1878 PC Colfar G Division is reduced to 26/10d per week for drunkenness and neglect of duty and will be transferred to Crewe at his own expense. Superintendents are requested to ascertain and report to this officer whether their Sergeants and Constables Duty Books contain the following information and that the same is properly entered therein. 1st The fact of their having served Summonses upon persons reported by them. 2nd Having attended Court to give evidence in the same showing the decision and names of convicting Magistrates. 3rd The execution of any Warrants, upon whom, result of etc, Winter trousers may be taken into wear at once. Staff Cases need not be worn when attending Divine Service in uniform. In cases under the Adulteration of Food Act the police will on no account receive from the Magistrates Clerk any allowance ordered to be paid by Magistrates to the Analyst for his attendance to give evidence. Chief Constables Office, Chester 26th November 1878 2nd Class Sergeant W. Leah is reduced to the rank of 1st Class PC and will be immediately transferred from F to E Division and be stationed at Northwich. PC P. Walley F Division is appointed 2nd Class Sergeant vice Sergeant Leah being reduced. Chief Constables Office, Chester 28th November 1878 The following transfers will take place without unnecessary delay, Sergeant Oldham from D to E Division to be stationed at Middlewich, 2nd Class Inspector Roche from K to D Division to be stationed at Knutsford and 2nd Class Inspector Bithell from E Division to K Division to be stationed at Little Sutton. Chief Constables Office, Chester 29th November 1878 Chief Inspector Wood will receive increase in pay from £90 to £95 per annum from the 1st instant. Chief Constables Office, Chester 30th November 1878 In making out lists of men to be measured for new clothing Superintendents will arrange their names in alphabetical order of rank as shown in list herewith forwarded, and from this date each man will bear the number therein shown, except when transferred to another Division as follows Division From Numbers To Numbers A 1 37 B 41 58 C 62 78 D 82 120 E 124 160 F 164 187 G 191 206 H 210 246 J 250 262 K 266 308 L 312 322 The following transfers will take place as early as possible, PC Pettingale from D to C Division to be stationed at Styal and PC Hill from K to G Division to be stationed at Norley. Chief Constables Office, Chester 2nd December 1878 The Chief Constable finds it necessary to draw the attention of all ranks of the Cheshire Constabulary to page 3 of their Instruction Book wherein it directs as far as practicable the duties on Sundays and other days appointed for Public Worship will be so arranged as to permit the attendance of the Constabulary at Divine Service, at least once a day, enter in their Journal all such attendance. Sergeants of Sections will report monthly to their Superintendents if this order has been complied with. It is hereby directed that in future all recruits joining Divisions will produce their Journal for their Sergeants inspection three times a week for the first month who are held responsible that all duties performed by them are carefully and properly entered therein. In future all services of Summonses will be entered in duty Books of the Constables serving the same, thus "served summonses on...................for assault or as the case may be. It is to be distinctly understood by all ranks that when attending Petty Sessions, the Court Room will not be quitted by a Constable without first obtaining the permission of the Superior officer present. Sergeants of Sections will direct each Constable to pay particular attention on their respective beats, to all bills posted relative to Cattle Disease and see that they are not destroyed, defaced or removed should this occur, Sergeants will immediately report same to their Superintendent in order that such may be replaced. In future Sergeants on night duty are to clearly understand that their second visit to Constables must be made after midnight unless circumstances otherwise require it. Chief Constables Office, Chester 2nd December 1878 Sergeants of Sections are enjoined to impress upon those under their command the necessity for compliance with the order on page 21 of their Instruction Book and they will always salute Magistrates when passing them, whenever a new Constable is stationed in their District they will at once be informed who the Magistrates are and where they reside. PC Whitehead E Division is reduced from 1st to 2nd Class Constable at 26/10d per week for drunkenness when on duty. PC Skally is transferred from H to F Division to be stationed at Halton vice 2nd Class Sergeant Walley removed to Runcorn. Chief Constables Office, Chester 3rd December 1878 In consequence of the large number of cases of men being unfit for duty through sickness, the Chief Constable is compelled in justice to the rate payers to make the following rules in reference to same Deductions for Sickness, for Sergeants and Constables Rate Per Day Number of Days 8d For first 14 days 1/- After 14 days 2/- After 21 days 3/- After 30 days In the event of the above officers not being able to resume duty after 40 days they will be borne upon the strength of the force as Supernumerary without pay or be discharged. At the expiration of the 40 days Superintendents will furnish the Chief Constable with a special report upon each case to enable him to decide which course to pursue together with ant recommendation they may wish to make relating thereto. Inspectors after one month's absence from duty will only receive half their pay and at the expiration of three months are liable to be placed upon the Supernumerary list without pay. Chief Constables Office, Chester 6th December 1878 PC William Leah will be transferred from E to H Division on such a day as may be arranged. Chief Constables Office, Chester 7th December 1878 PC Thomas Lymer A Division is reduced to the pay of 23/11d per week and will be transferred at his own expense to E Division to be stationed at Northwich for drunkenness and neglect of duty. Chief Constables Office, Chester 9th December 1878 The following rule will be rigidly observed by all members of the force on being appointed to a new district Superintendents will report themselves personally without delay to all Magistrates residing within their Division. Inspectors and Sergeants will also report themselves to the Magistrate residing within their Sections. Constables stationed in rural districts will report themselves to all the Magistrates residing within their beats. In visiting different parts of the County the Chief Constable observed a want of uniformity in placing the sign boards over Constables residences and directs that Superintendents will see that they are fixed in a conspicuous place about one foot above the front doorway and where necessary for the convenience of the public they may be fixed on the gable end of the Constables residences but on no account are they to be placed high than the position directed for having them over the doorway. A pattern black worsted glove having been approved of, the same will be worn during the Winter months, 1st November to 1st April. Superintendents and Inspectors are requested to provide themselves with black gloves (either calf or cloth) for wear during the same period. Chief Constables Office, Chester 10th December 1878 Divisions will parade as follows for the purpose of being measured for new clothing, helmets will be worn. Lists will be made out on the forms herewith sent and be ready to hand to the measurer on his arrival Division Date and Time Location C Monday 16th December at 10.30am Macclesfield B Monday 16th December 1pm Stockport A Monday 16th December 3.15pm Hyde D Tuesday 17th December 10.15am Altrincham E Tuesday 17th December 1pm Northwich F Tuesday 17th December 4.15pm Runcorn H Wednesday 18th December 9.30am Crewe G Wednesday 18th December 12 noon Beeston J Wednesday 18th December 2.45pm Tattenhall L Thursday 19th December 10am Chester K Thursday 19th December 12.30pm Birkenhead Chief Constables Office, Chester 11th December 1878 Weights and Measures, Superintendents will see that a copy of the large placard is kept posted up in all conspicuous places in their Divisions and that the small bills are given to Large Dealers and Shop Keepers and are put on other places where necessary. A copy of the Act of 1878 is also forwarded and the fees authorised in the 5th Schedule will be taken for stamping. Chief Constables Office, Chester 12th December 1878 The following transfers will take place as early as possible, PC Rolls from D to B Division and PC McCoy from B to D Division. Chief Constables Office, Chester 14th December 1878 Inspector Naylor of E Division will receive increase in pay to £110 per annum from the 1st instant. Chief Constables Office, Chester 14th December 1878 The following promotions will take place from this date Sergeant Major Clifton E Division to 32/8d per week, 2nd Class Sergeant Fowler H Division Merit Class at 29/2d per week. Chief Constables Office, Chester 20th December 1878 Chief Inspector Wood will receive increase in pay from £95 to £100 per annum from the 1st instant. Chief Constables Office, Chester 20th December 1878 The following transfers will take place on such days as may be arranged PC Leah from H to E Division and PC Kenney from E to H Division to be stationed at Crewe. Chief Constables Office, Chester 20th December 1878 PC Thomas James K Division stationed at Eastham will be removed to High Leigh in D Division on the 1st proximo. (Cancelled) Chief Constables Office, Chester 23rd December 1878 In consequence of the great activity displayed by 2nd Class Sergeant Cooper D Division on the 6th instant at Knutsford in stopping a Prize Fight and thereby preventing a Public Scandal, the Chief Constable has great pleasure in promoting him from the 26th instant to the pay of first Class Constable at 28/- per week and trusts that this appreciation of his conduct will induce and stimulate young and old Constables to use the greatest diligence in the performance of their duties, as the Chief Constable is most anxious at all times to manifest his approval in the highest possible manner of such efforts on the part of the Constabulary. Chief Constables Office, Chester 23rd December 1878 PC Thomas James K Division and PC James Bowden C Division are dismissed from the force for drunkenness when on duty. Chief Constables Office, Chester 23rd December 1878 PC Robert Aston H Division will be transferred to C Division and be stationed at Chorley. Chief Constables Office, Chester 23rd December 1878 PC Ridgeway B Division and PC W. Whitley J Division having been absent from duty through sickness beyond the 40 days prescribed in General Order of the 3rd instant will be allowed 1/- per day until further orders. Chief Constables Office, Chester 24th December 1878 PC Thomas Reece J Division will be transferred to K Division vice dismissal of PC James. Chief Constables Office, Chester 24th December 1878 The small Metallic Pocket Books to be sent to Divisions will be issued to each man on the 1st proximo and be considered part of his appointments, a short note of all circumstances requiring same will be made therein at the time they came under notice, with names, place, date and hour, the book will always be in the possession of the officer and be produced if necessary when giving evidence before Magistrates and Superintendents will occasionally inspect these books and see that they are properly kept and that no entries are made therein except those relating strictly to police duties. Chief Constables Office, Chester 30th December 1878 2nd Class Sergeant Harvey A Division is allowed to withdraw his resignation and will be transferred to D Division and be stationed at High Leigh. 250 251 252 253 254 255 256 257 258 259 260 261 262 263 264 265 266 267 268 269 270 271 272 273 274 275 276 276 277 278 279 280 281 282 283 284 285 286 287 288 289 290 291 292 293 294 295 296 297 298 299 300 301 302 303 304 305 306 307 308 309 310 311 312 313 314 315 316 317 318 319 320 321 322 323 324 325 326 327 329 330 331 332 333 334 335 336 337 338 339 340 341 342 343 344 345 346 347 348 349 350 351 352 353 354 355 356 357 358 359 360 361 362 363 364 365 366 367 368 369 370 371 372