Perth's first female police officer, now 95, honoured during new recruit's parade

Perth’s first female officer, now aged 95, was the guest of honour during the new recruit's passing out parade at the Scottish Police College.

Minnie Clark and ACC McLaren. Picture: Police Scotland

A 95-year-old woman who was the first female officer to join Perth City Police force in 1942 has been honoured by the newest recruits during the Scottish Police College passing out parade in Tulliallan.

Minnie Clark (nee McLaren) was presented with a framed copy of her police personnel record, dating from April 1942 until November 1945, when she left because she got married.

Minnie Clark 1942. Picture: Police Scotland

During her years of service, Minnie Clark's duties were restricted to being on patrol, overseeing office duties and dealing with ‘female and child’ enquiries.

She said: "Times have changed, there was no drug crime then, it was mostly alcohol related, theft or breach of the peace.

ACC Angela McLaren, who presented Minnie Clark with the gift, said: "It’s been an honour to have Minnie at the passing out parade, women like Minnie absolutely helped pave the way for female police officers today.

"Luckily, the women passing out today can look forward to a much longer and fairer career than Minnie was given the opportunity to have."