'Watching over Carlisle' - Chief Constable supports launch of history of Carlisle policing book

Cumbria's Chief Constable has pledged his support to the publication of a book that explores the history of policing in Carlisle.

The book has hit the shelves of local bookstores this month and is a culmination of seven years of research undertaken by an ex-Carlisle officer and Secretary and Treasurer of North Cumbria's Association of Retired Police Officers (NARPO), Bob Lowther. Mr Lowther sadly died in April last year before seeing the result of his work. However, after his death his wife Jennifer assumed the role of Secretary and Treasurer of NARPO and has had his research published last month.

Chief Constable Craig Mackey was a friend and colleague of Mr Lowther up until his death. Mr Mackey supported the research for the book and completed the foreword for the publication.

Chief Constable Mackey said: "Bob was a great friend of police and worked tirelessly on behalf of all retired officers in North Cumbria to ensure that they were supported and remained part of the policing family.

"From the moment I met him, Bob's passion for policing and the development of the role of police over time shone through. I completely supported his research and am delighted to have contributed to the book which explores the turbulent history of Carlisle City Police.

"I worked with Bob as part of NARPO and I know he had a positive effect on the lives of many retired police officers - ensuring everyone was supported and not forgotten. He would be extremely proud of this book and I know that he will continue to have a positive effect on many who enjoy reading it."

Jennifer Lowther of Carlisle said: "Bob spent seven years of his life dedicated to exploring the history of policing in Carlisle and I know that he would be delighted that we are now able to share his knowledge and research with others.

"Bob started off his career as a police officer with the City of Carlisle police in 1959 and ended his career when he retired as a superintendent in Derbyshire in 1989. From the moment he joined the police he was passionate about being part of the 'policing family' and I'm sure that others will take great pleasure in learning more about the history of the city."

'Watching over Carlisle: 140 years of the Carlisle Police Force' costs £15 and is available at Bookends, Tullie House Museum and the Visitor Centre in Carlisle. You can also order the book online at
www.p3publications.com