Ealing-based PCSO Retires After 30 Years of Service
72-year-old Arthur Gray started as a Special Constable in 1993
PCSO Arthur Gray and AC Louisa Rolfe
March 28, 2024
A 72-year-old man working for the police in Ealing is set to retire this week after over 30 years of service.
Arthur Gray started with the Metropolitan Police as a volunteer Special Constable in 1993 before moving to the role of a Police Community Support Officer (PCSO), based out of Ealing police station in 2009. In this time, he has patrolled the streets of Northolt, Greenford and Harrow and is acknowledged by many residents of these areas as making an important contribution to making them safer.
He will leave the job on 31 March after being handed an award for his long service and dedication by Assistant Commissioner Louisa Rolfe, at a ceremony on 13 March.
While working as a PCSO, Arthur was nominated for a British Citizen Award by the parallel safer neighbourhood team and also recognised by the Commissioner for effort in delivering high standards in the Met.
Arthur says what he will miss ‘working alongside a great team of officers who put the community at the heart of their day-to-day policing’,
He recommends the role of a PCSO to anyone who can connect with residents by listening and addressing their concerns and gaining the trust of the community by being invested and present.
Arthur Gray said, “Working for the Met as a community support officer is an unforgettable experience.
“There have been many interesting cases I’ve worked on in that time, from tackling a shop lifter, all the way up to murder, however the biggest joy has been working with residents.
“The clue is in the job title. It has been a privilege to support the local community and build up long-lasting relationships. That can be through creating a local newsletter for 2,000 people or taking time and talking to people on the street. By investing time in residents, you build trust, and it has made this role a joy to have.”
Assistant Commissioner Louisa Rolfe said, “It was a delight to meet with Arthur and present him with his award. His service is a testament to his dedication and passion for the role. I wish him a long and happy retirement where he can finally hang up his boots.
“Our Police Community Support Officer’s play a vital part in keeping Londoners safe. Officers like Arthur are invaluable to us, and are an essential tool in reducing crime and building trust.”
Police Community Support Officers support local Safer Neighbourhood or Transport teams. Both roles involve interacting with the public and gathering intelligence.
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