“the good, the bad, and the downright funny”
A Talk by Jackie Dimmock
April 13 2022
Jackie is a retired police officer who worked for the Hampshire Constabulary for almost 30 years (1982-2012). She illustrated her entertaining talk with little mini quilt “stories” which she hung onto her lovely banner as her talk unfolded.
Jackie described her initial basic training, her early years in Newport, Isle of Wight, and later years working in Basingstoke. I loved her descriptions of the ghastly uniform women police officers were expected to wear before decent trousers became the norm: a straight skirt with black stockings… then culottes! The “stab vest” was added as an additional problem for any lady with an ample bosom!
Her many anecdotal stories were funny, but also poignant and scary as we heard of sexual harassment and abuse from members of the public that she had to deal with, and her experience of being called to give “evidence” at a murder trial. She told me afterwards that all officers were expected to view a post mortem examination: hers was that of a cot death baby. No “ifs and buts” were allowed, but she managed to explain her fears to the Pathologist and was fascinated by the demonstration.
Here is her beautiful banner… a recognition of her work, her colleagues, and to colleagues we know of who have lost their lives in the line of duty. Thank you.
Virginia Clough
April 2022
