Greater Manchester Police are commemorating the centenary of the outbreak of World War One with a special exhibition at GMP Museum.

The display has been established to remember those who helped the community during the conflict and those who lost their lives in the war.

Millions of soldiers lost their lives in the conflict, including officers who volunteered for duties on the front line from what was then known as Manchester City Police.

Around seven hundred police officers enlisted for army service, which was more than fifty per cent of the total officers in the Force at the time and was
the largest percentage of any city police force in the country.

Of those who signed up, eight five lost their lives.

As officers volunteered, this left a gap in the policing of Manchester which was filled by special constables. During the war, 15,000 special constables were recruited to help police the community and this marked an important change to their policing powers.

The responsibility of special constables shifted during this time going from a ceremonial function to the vital role that they play in policing today.

Greater Manchester Police Chief Constable, Sir Peter Fahy said: “A hundred years on, this exhibition recognises the sacrifices that were made by men who served for their country in World War One.

“It also looks at the way the role of special constables has evolved over the years into the integral role that they play in policing today.

“We encourage the public to take the time out to come and experience all that the exhibition has to offer.”

Museum Curator Duncan Broady added: “We are proud to join in the commemoration of this important event and to recognise the role that our officers played both in the local community and overseas during the wartime.”

As part of the exhibition, letters from World War One will be on display, including those written by an officer to loved ones at home, along with historical artefacts from the era.

Visitors will be able to listen to the letters which have been voiced by actor Bill Cronshaw and museum volunteer Mary Randles from an audio unit at the exhibition.

The letters include the story of PC James Chapman from Moston, Greater Manchester who served in the war.

To listen to James’ story, visit the GMP Museum from Tuesday 6 August 10.30am-3pm. The museum is open every Tuesday, with special opening days on Thursdays throughout the school holidays.

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