More Than a Uniform: The Story of Plymouth Constable Arthur John Uzzell
Arthur John Uzzell devoted more than three decades of his life to public service, serving with the Plymouth City Police from September 1925 until June 1959. Over a 33-year career, he rose to the rank of constable and earned an exemplary conduct record, becoming part of a remarkable family tradition of policing that stretched back to the 18th century and continued until the early 21st century with the vendor’s father.
Uzzell’s service extended far beyond routine duty. During the Second World War, he worked as an air raid warden, a role that placed him on the front line of civilian protection, for which he was awarded the Defence Medal. His quiet dedication and humanity left a lasting impression on colleagues and community alike.
So respected was Uzzell that, following his death, multiple local newspapers published tributes to his outstanding service. Perhaps most moving of all was a letter sent to the Chief Constable of Plymouth by a former prisoner whom Uzzell had supervised while working as a jailer shortly before his retirement. Writing on behalf of himself and other inmates, he described Uzzell simply as “the kindest man we have known.” It was a reputation that earned him the Exemplary Service Medal and enduring respect across all walks of life.
This collection offers a poignant insight into Arthur John Uzzell’s career and character. It includes his medals, police helmet, batons, whistles, handcuffs, lighter, embossed suitcase, along with documents and newspaper cuttings that speak not just to a lifetime in uniform, but to the remarkable kindness and integrity he showed to everyone he encountered.
The collection will be up for auction at Plymouth Auction Rooms on 24th February.
