Bill was born and raised in South Shields, with his sister Lilian and brother James. Upon leaving school Bill first found work at his local library. He left the library after a short period to join the R.A.F, where he became a Wireless Operator on the Lancaster Bombers, and remained in service until 1947. Bill returned to the library to work a second time, and it was upon his return he met his first wife Joan. Bill and Joan were married in 1955, and it was around this time that he decided on a career change. Bill joined the Metropolitan Police in October 1954 training first in Hendon, then moving to London and finally settling in Surrey. Sadly his first wife died in 1971, having suffered many years of illness due to kidney failure. Following this tragedy Bill took up sailing as a hobby, crewing yachts all round the South Coast as far as the Mediterranean. His love for the sea remained with him throughout his life. Some years later Bill was introduced to his second wife Tessa. Bill and Tessa were married in 1978, and had many happy years together until his death in April 2006. Bill retired from the Police Force in 1985, and soon after returned to his home town to live. Sadly in 2000 Bill was diagnosed with Parkinsons disease. Having always been well and in good health, he fought this illness with such bravery until the end. Bill will be remembered as a great man, loved and respected by family and friends alike. He accomplished so much in his life, and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.