Wigan Album

You would probably be arrested for doing that nowadays!

And why would that be AW?

Reminds me of an occasion in 1963, strolling through the park, chatting to Amy, a well known police lady, and a real lady. On the grass were a couple kissing, Amy called over to them, wagged her finger, and advised them not to get too carried away, they gave sheepish grins, then they both got to their feet, and walked off. On leaving her, she gave my two year son, I think it was half a crown, that was a fair sum in 1963. God bless Amy, May you Rest in Peace.

Albert. that would be big Amy, she lived on Park Road at one time, died a few years ago, she was nice.

That is correct A.W. I served with her in the late fifties, & early sixties. At that particular time I was enjoying the lovely Mesnes Park, together with my wife, and our baby son, with the bonus of having a chat to Amy. I did visit her, a few weeks before she passed away.

Amy came to give a talk to a group, probably the Mothers Union, at St Mary's early on in my time there - then I used to see her around town afterwards - and last saw her when visiting a parishioner in Alexandra Court in Pemberton. She still had a presence then.

Great picture brings back happy memories working there.

Albert, you must have served in Wigan police about the same time as a neighbour of mine. Did you know Alan Cotton? he lived in The Grove in Ince. I seem to remember that he was in Wigan water polo team that was mainly PC's.

I certainly did Alan. I used to go to Billy Riley's gym with Alan, Freddie Dyke, Ted Knipe, and Jock Scott. Used to get thrown from pillar, to post, but it was all good fun, felt better, after a good rub down with Elliman's embrocation.

Albert, I remember a report in the Observer many years ago. It said that a suspect had been stopped in Park Road. There was a struggle and he pushed the policeman to the ground and tried to escape but was "detained" by WPC (Amy)Holt. Always makes me smile.

John. She surely was a lady of amazing physical ability. I had been in one particular sticky situation, where I was very thankful to have her by my side. One night when the Wigan fair was in full swing, and a large fight broke out. There must have been at least a dozen involved. She surely showed her mettle.

What treasures you gentlemen come up with - I've loved reading them - thanks.

I remember a colleague telling me he got sent to Amy’s home shortly after she retired. She had been out, and on her return home, disturbed a burglar.
When he got there, the burglar was hiding behind an armchair in the corner, terrified of Amy!
A remarkable lady.

I do believe Wade Dooley, is Amy's nephew. He played for England, Rugby Union. He was in the Blackpool Police. He was so tall, the opposition stood no chance in a line out.