Very special officer calls it a day after 51 years in Inverness-shire constabulary

Published on 08/06/2012 00:00

A SPECIAL constable who, in the 1960s, was turned down as a full- time police officer because of his height has stood down after 51 years in service.

Special Superintendent Alan Melville officially retired in 2005 at age 65, but returned in a volunary role for another seven years. Northern Constabulay believe few if any special constables in Scotland had devoted such length of service.

At 5ft 8in, Mr Melville had his application to become a full-time officer declined under 1960s rules.

He went on to join Inverness-shire Constabulary in 1961 as a special. He has now left Northern Constabulary, its successor, as a special superintendent.

The Inverness shoe-shop owner said: “I have enjoyed every minute of my special career and I would do it all over again.There have been many, many fond memories, and I would probably highlight the camaraderie with my regular colleagues as the best thing about the job.”