Mal's Memories (From Penarth Times)

Mal's Memories

DO YOU remember the old-time Bobbies?

When I was growing up in Dinas Powys, I remember several who used to ride round on bikes, knew everyone in the village on first name terms, and did not stand for any nonsense on their patch.

Pc Stan Thomas particularly comes to mind, because he was around when I became old enough to go into the local pubs for a beer, and he invariably appeared at chucking-out time.

I remember on one occasion coming out of the rugby club late on a particularly cold winter night with a few pals, and betting one of them that he could not climb the rugby posts on the Common.

He soon discovered that climbing an icy pole is not the easiest task and was cussing liberally as he kept slipping back down.

He was a few feet off the ground when he was suddenly caught in the spotlight provided by Pc Thomas's police torch.

"Do you know what time it is?", asked Pc Thomas.

"If you want to make a racket go home and do it. Now b- off before I run you all in."

And home we went.

The point is that Pc Thomas knew we were not really trouble-makers - just occasionally high spirited.

He treated us accordingly and we did not abuse his trust.

I remember the story of the boy who went home and complained to his father that the local Bobby had given him a clip round the ear.

His father promptly gave him another clip, and said: "Well you must have deserved it."

Could you see that happening today?