Tributes flood in for a special constable

Ray May

Greater Manchester’s longest serving special constable has died suddenly at home in Chadderton.

Ray May dedicated 42 years of his life to the force and was awarded the British Empire Medal in 1992 for services to policing and transport.

Ray, who was 63, first joined the special constabulary in 1965 after spotting an advert in the Chronicle.

He worked in busy control rooms and on the beat in Stockport and Oldham for decades, while holding down day jobs at Ferranti and later as a bus fitter.

In 1988, he committed himself to the constabulary full-time, joining the control room at Oldham police station in 1988, before moving to the Tameside Division in Ashton.

He eventually bowed out at chief inspector level last February to take a well-earned break.

At the time, he said: “I never expected to stay as long as I did, but I’m a people-watcher and have really enjoyed my time in the constabulary.

“I have loved getting to know people in the community and making them feel safe in their environment.”

Ray garnered huge respect in the force, using his wide experience to help a number of special constables become regular police officers.

Many credit him as being their inspiration and the reason they joined up.

On his retirement, Chief Supt Zoe Hamilton, divisional commander for police in Tameside, said: “Ray’s commitment to the police is clear for everyone to see.

“We are sorry to be losing such a dedicated member of our team.”

A family man, Ray married Mavis and they had two sons, Ian and the late Peter, and a grand-daughter, Hannah.

Chief Supt of Oldham Police, Caroline Ball, said: “Ray was well-respected by everyone who knew him.

“He was caring and considerate and nothing was too much trouble, always doing all he could to help and support his colleagues.

“He was an asset to the team, demonstrated by his 43-year dedication to GMP as a special constable.

He was a role model and mentor for the many other specials who served alongside him.

“It was a pleasure to know and work with Ray. He will never be forgotten.

“Our thoughts are with his family at this difficult time.”

The funeralwill be held at Hollinwood Crematorium on Thursday at 2pm.

The family have asked for donations to Dr Kershaw’s Hospice, Turf Lane, Royton. Call 0161-624 2727.