Comments on BTP’s role in the recent riots in English cities

BTP Riot Gear
BTP Riot Gear

From the BTP website –

The rail system has largely been able to operate during the recent difficult circumstances in London and various towns and cities across England.

Our officers are out in force and have dealt with some minor problems, but no serious incidents. We will intervene should incidents occur and will take a robust approach to any disorder in support of our local police colleagues. Our priority remains ensuring the safety of the railways and those who work within it and travel on it, and our operations are supporting this.

From The Times –

Chief Constable Andy Trotter urged minsters to stop ‘pretending’ sweeping cuts to budgets would not affect front line policing.

From FaceBook –

Our people have been truly magnificent… they have been in the thick of it; particularly when the trouble in Croydon was at its height. We had officers under attack including by petrol bomb. I can tell you that BTP has stepped up to the plate and displayed great courage, Integrity, resilience and professional competence. I am very proud of out people and I am sure you are too. As always the very worst situations brings out the very best in police officers.

From Twitter –

We are deploying 21 Mobile Support Units across London and UK city centres to respond to any disorder in key areas.

and

Huge thanks to our Special Constables who’ve risen to the challenge of recent events supporting frontline officers & the rail network.

Well done every one.

History of the BTP Dog Section

Pc Alan Beddoe's dog 'Major' in the early 1980's
Major
Spud

 

New member Mick Kinirey has taken on the job of building on Kevin Gordons excellent work on the origins of BTP police dogs. He will be bringing the story up to date and finding out all those unlikely tales. The photos here are of Pc Alan Beddoe’s dog ‘Major’ who carried out an extraordinary track in the 1980s, and Spud, very much a 21st Century police dog.

It’s a big topic and Mick can do with all the help he can get. Do you have any stories, photos or memorabilia? You can contact Mick through his email on the Projects‘ page of this site or via his address in the NARBTPO Directory.
Go on, you know you want to.