Thomas Henry Farndale

The Real ‘Foyle’s War’ - An inspector of crime during the Second World War

The webpage of Thomas Henry Farndale which accompanies this page provides a full chronology of his life and source material for his story

Early Life

Thomas Henry Farndale, son of Samuel Farndale, an accountant clerk of Glenelf Road, West Brixton, London and Pollie (nee Chesters) Farndale, was born at Glenelf Road, Brixton, on 12 September 1899 and baptised at Brixton on 23 May 1900.

In 1901 the family lived at 118 Amesbury Avenue, Streatham, Wandsworth, London. Samuel Farndale, 34 was a clerk at the Admiralty buy then and his mother Pollie Farndale, 29, had been born 1872. His older sister was Ethel Chesters Farndale, who was four years old. His sister Gertrude Farndale, born in 1897, had died at birth.

By 1911 the family had moved to Kentwyns, Warwick Road, Thornton Heath, Croydon, Surrey. Samuel Farndale was 44, still an admiralty accountant clerk and Pollie Farndale was 39. Ethel Chesters Farndale was 14 and Thomas was 11. By then he had three other siblings, Frank Farndale, 9; Walter Reginald Farndale, 5; and Hilda Margaret Farndale, 2 and Pollie’s sister, Lucy Chesters, 30, was staying with them.

Thomas did well at school. In July 1913, in Croydon, the annual prize distribution at the Winterbourne Road Schools took place on Monday afternoon, Mrs Reid presenting the prizes to the boys, and Mr E Fletcher to the girls. In reviewing his report, Mr. J Potter, the headmaster, reviewed the work of the scholars, which he said, was very satisfactory. Those receiving attendance prizes included Thomas Farndale.

From soon after the outbreak of war in 1914, Thomas Harry Farndale born on 12 September 1899, service No Z/6840 served in the Royal Navy Reserve in London in the first World War. He was a telegraphist. He served in the 1914 to 1918 war with the Royal Navy Volunteer Reserve, as a wireless telegraphist.

Early Police Career

Thomas joined the Police Force in May 1920. For the first ten years he was successively at Woking, Camberley, Sunningdale, Windlesham, and Cranleigh.

In 1921, Police Constable Thomas H Farndale was living at Ingll Men’s Quarters at the Police Station at Woking in Surrey, with six other Police Constables. He was employed by the Surrey County Council Police Authority. For some reason the census recorded his place of birth as Bradford, but that was a mistake.

In March 1928 the Guildford Borough Coroner, Mr FW Smallpiece, conducted an inquest at the Royal Surrey County Hospital, Guildford, on Monday into the death of Alex Herbert Harding, aged 23, of Springhead Farm, Lynchmere, near Haslemere, which occurred on Friday last week as the result of a collision with a motor lorry at new road, Chilworth, on the previous day. PC Farndale of Shalford said the front wheel of the motorcycle was badly damaged. It was very dark night, with fine rain. The road at that point was straight for 300 yards. The cycle was taken from the road into a yard by a crowd which assembled, and anyone might have turned off the water of the lamp. The lorry had an oil lamp which was not very bright, but the motorcyclist could have seen it 100 yards away.

In June 1928 Hersham Division Police played the Dorking Division in the Chief Constable’s Cup competition at Leatherhead on Tuesday, Dorking winning by 22 runs. In the Hersham Division, PC Farndale was bowled Leg Before Wicket, bowled by Batterham.

In June 1929: at Kingston on Thursday a defendant, of Oyster Lane, Byfleet, was fined £2 for driving a motorcycle in a manner dangerous to the public at Dt Georges Avenue, Walton, on May 3rd. Evidence given by Inspector Dibley and PC Farndale was that on the morning of May 3rd defendant drove at speed of about 36 miles an hour on the wrong side of the white line while rounding a bend in the road. Defendant pleaded that, being late, he was hurrying to work at a speed of about 20 miles an hour, and that he drove on the wrong side of the line to avoid a man at work on the road.

In June 1929 a very pretty wedding with solemnised at St Wilfrid’s church, Haywards Heath, on Wednesday afternoon, the contracting parties being Mr Lionel Norman Head and Miss Gwendoline Box. Mr Thomas H Farndale, a colleague of the bridegroom in the Surrey Constabulary, carried out the duties of the best man.

He then transferred to clerical duties, first at Hersham and then at Woking.

In July 1930 Hesham Police on Saturday defeated Walton Fire Brigade by 55 runs. PC Farndale, was bowled Wright, for 1 run.

In May 1932 the Hersham division of the Surrey Constabulary entertained the Guildford division to a bowls match at Hersham on Wednesday and won by 55 points. Schools. Farndale, 35.

In April 1934 appearing on remand at Woking Petty Sessions on Saturday, a defendant, of no fixed abode, was charged with obtaining £10 by false pretences from another, of Horsell, and with stealing, while bailee, a raincoat and a pair of gloves. He pleaded guilty to both offences, and asked the magistrates to take account of a charge, due to be heard at Wolverhampton Buckinghamshire, of obtaining £2 by false pretences. PC Farndale said that when interviewed at Working Police Station on April 7th, prisoner admitted selling the clothes in London for 1s 6d, and said he wished to help to recover them. The coat could not be traced, but the gloves had been recovered.

In June 1934 the hearing of a charge of stealing a number of articles from an address on Walton Rd, was resumed at Working Police Court on Saturday, the accused being a 37 year old waiter, of London. The articles, which were valued at £37, included a gold filled cigarette case, a gold watch, a platinum and gold chain, a diamond ring, a silver tie pin, and a jewel case. At the previous hearing when the accused was remanded in custody, PC Farndale stated that defendant admitted that he took the stuff, saying he was hard up, and did not know what made him do it. On Saturday PC Farndale gave evidence of the recovery of the articles.

Two cases of alleged thefts by servants came before Mr H Quartermaine at Woking Police Court in July 1934. In the first case, a 36 year old cook, no fixed abode, was charged with the larceny, as a servant, of £2 3s 10d, between May 26 and June 8th. PC Farndale said he saw the accused at Bow Street police station on Tuesday, when the man said “Yes I took the money. I had a bit of trouble and, after dinner I went out, got drinking, and spent the money.”

In August 1934 a crowd of about 8,000 people watched a programme of sports at Kingfield on Monday, when among many attractive events were two Surrey cycling championships. The crowd was entertained by a trick motorcycling display. Selections of music were given by the 5th Battalion the Queens Royal Regiment. The duties of referee were carried out and the following also officiated. T Farndale, programmes.

In December 1934 on the charge of stealing the safe from the wholesale shop, the manager, of 7 Holyoake Avenue, Horsell, and a milk roundsman, of 25 Holyoake Avenue, gave formal evidence of locking the shop and of finding it broken open. A van driver, of 1 Arthur’s cottages, Arthur’s bridge, corroborated these statements. PC Farndale said the safe was recovered from the stream near Kemishford bridge on November 28. A piece of rope similar to others found at a garage were hanging from the skylight at the shop.

In the same month, Mr EC Dutton, president of the Woking Chamber of Commerce, said he left his home at 6:00 PM on November 15th with his wife, and on his return just after 11 pm he found the kitchen floor and table covered with broken glass. A window pane was broken, his dog had been shut in the scullery, and a deed box was missing from the wardrobe. PC Farndale, who was called to Mr Dutton's house after the robbery, and Detective Sergeant Turner said the accused replied “definitely not” when charged.

On a charge relating to a girl between February 1st and April 30th, 1934, a 20 year old electrician, of High Street, Horsell, appeared at Woking Police Court on Saturday. The magistrates adjourned the case for seven days, bail being allowed. PC Farndale said that, when arrested that morning, the accused admitted that he was the father of the girl's child, but said he was mislaid as to her age.

Thomas H Farndale married Hilda Marion Judith Edwards in the second quarter of 1934, aged 35) at in North West Surrey. Their son, Thomas Charles Samuel Farndale was born in Surrey on 22 February 1935. Gerald Clifford Farndale was born in Surrey on 20 February 1936.

At Woking in June 1935 Woking Police were beaten by Westfield Beat Police in a bowls tournament by eight shots. PC Farndale took part.

A voter from York Road, Woking went to the polling station at 7.20 am in November 1935, and waited until it opened at 8 o’clock. The polling station at the Boy’s County School, Woking, is 3 minutes walk from the railway station. At 8 am a number of businessmen, bent on catching the 8:05 train to London, started to record that vote. They all managed to catch their train. The first person to record his vote at Horsell was PC Farndale.

Thomas was a police sergeant by 1937.

Since its inception five years ago the annual sports meeting arranged by the Surrey Constabulary Sports Club at Woking sports ground has proved one of the most popular attractions of the season, and on a Saturday in July 1937 there was a crowd of about 6000 of the ground to watch a varied programme. PS Farndale was responsible for competitors numbers.

A young soldier of the Queens Royal Regiment, Stoughton Barracks, Guildford, appeared at Camberley Police Court in October 1937 charged with stealing £5, on 1 October 1937, at Bagshot. PS Farndale said that on October 4th he visited Stoughton Barracks, Guildford, where he interviewed the defendant, who admitted stealing the money and handed back the notes.

The World War 2 Detective

By 1938, Thomas was a detective sergeant.

A spell of CID experience was followed by promotion to Sergeant at Bagshot, where he came in close contact with the late Duke of Connaught, the security of whose residence, Bagshot Park, came within his jurisdiction.

In November 1938 a labourer, committed from Camberley, was sentenced to 12 months hard labour after pleading guilty to breaking and entering a house at Frensham, between September 7th and 9th, and stealing 2 overcoats and other articles, valued at £120. Detective Sergeant Farndale stated that the accused had two previous convictions.

In 1938, Mr Farndale returned to CID duties and was stationed at Farnham.

The Three Soldiers Murder Case

In July 1939 three soldiers appeared before the Farnham, Surrey, magistrates today charged with the murder of Mabel , 43, maid, employed at Moorlands Hotel, Hindhead. The accused were Stanley, 27, Arthur, 25, and Joseph, 29, and they were remanded for a week. The charge was “that on July 4th, at Hindhead, they did, with malice aforethought, feloniously, kill and slay Mabel. Two of the men wore the brown dungarees of the Army's new battle dress, the third wore the uniform of a private. The woman's body was found under a pine tree in the grounds of the hotel, where she had been employed for the past year. The men made the their appearance at the conclusion of the ordinary petty sessional court. The names were not divulged until they were read out. Detective Sergeant Farndale said that at 7:45 AM yesterday he saw the body of Mabel lying in a pathway at Moorlands Hotel. “Later the same day,” he continued, “while making inquiries at Thursley Camp, I interviewed the three accused. Later I conveyed them to Farnham police station and at 12:45 this morning they were cautioned and charged by the Superintendent, with the wilful murder of Mabel”. In reply to the charge each man answered, “I have nothing to say.” The Clerk asked Superintendent S D Cox whether he would be in a position to proceed with the prosecution next Thursday. Superintendent Cox said he would apply for a further remand, but would probably be able to fix a day on which the charges could be heard.

Three soldiers appeared in court before the Farnham, Surrey, magistrates, today charged with the murder of Mabel, 43, a maid employed at Moorlands Hotel, Hindhead. The accused were Stanley, 27, Arthur, 26, and Joseph, 29, and they were remanded for a week. Two of the accused men are reservists. The third is a regular. They are all attached to the Second Battalion the North Staffordshire Regiment. Mabel’s battered body was found under a pine tree in the grounds of the hotel where she had been employed for the past year. Detective Sergeant Farndale said that at 7:45 AM yesterday he saw the body of Mabel lying in a pathway at the Moorlands Hotel, Hindhead.

Stanley, 27, Arthur, 26, and Joseph, 29, privates of the Second Battalion, North Staffordshire Regiment, were at Farnham today charged with “On July 4, at Hindhead, with malice aforethought they did kill and slay Mabel.” Sergeant Thomas Farndale stated in his evidence that at 7:45 yesterday morning he saw the body of a woman lying in a pathway at the Moorlands Hotel, Hindhead. Later the same day, while making inquiries at Thursley camp, he interviewed the three accused soldiers and took them to Farnham police station. At 12:45 this morning they were charged by Superintendent Cox. In reply to the charge each of them said, “I have nothing to say.”

Detective Sergeant Thomas Farndale said that at 7:45 on Wednesday morning he saw the body of a woman lying in the entrance to the Moorlands Hotel. Later the same day, while making enquiries at Thursley Camp, he interviewed the three men and later conveyed them to Farnham Police Station.

Detective Sergeant Farndale said that when the prisoners were charged with the wilful murder of Mabel, each man answered “I have nothing to say”.

After formal evidence by Detective Sergeant Farndale, Superintendent Cox said he had received instructions that the Director of Public Prosecutions would be prepared to go on with the case on Friday next, July 21st. The accused were again remanded in custody and were granted certificates for legal aid.

Three soldiers appeared at Farnham, Surrey, today, charged with the murder of Mabel, a 43 year old servant at a Hindhead hotel, Mr CR Paling, prosecuting, said that her head injuries were consistent with blows from a fist, given by a strong man. Minor injuries indicated that there had been a struggle and that the woman had received a rough beating. There had been interference. Answering an objection to a statement alleged to have been put him as evidence, Detective Sergeant Farndale said that he told a witness that he regarded him as a possible witness and that he had nothing to worry about.

Evidence for the prosecution was given at Farnham, Surrey, today, when three privates in the Second North Staffordshire Regiment, all natives of Stoke-on-Trent, were charged with the murder of Mabel, a 43 year old servant at a Hindhead hotel. Witnesses stated that on the night of July 4th, the woman was seen in a hotel bar talking to one of the soldiers, with whom she left at closing time. Two other soldiers followed them. The woman's body was found next morning in the grounds of the hotel where she was employed. Later, 152 soldiers were paraded, and a witness of Hindhead said she identified one accused as one of the three soldiers. Detective Sergeant Farndale said at a previous hearing that he saw the body of the woman lying on the pathway at the Moorland Hotel.

Detective Sergeant TH Farndale stated that one of the accused had said: “We stayed at the Royal Huts Hotel until turning out time, and the three of us came back to camp.” He said: “I will tell you the truth.” He then said that when they left the hotel, “one of the other solders went down to the road with a woman and the other followed. I remained outside the hotel until they returned.”

At a four days trial at the Old Bailey in September 1939, two privates in the North Staffordshire Regiment, Stanley, 27 and Arthur, 28, on Thursday were found guilty of the murder at Hindhead on July 4th of Miss Mabel, aged 42, a staff maid at the Moorlands Hotel, Hindwell. A third man, also a private in the same Regiment, Joseph, 29, was found not guilty. One of the soldiers was sentenced to death by Justice Oliver. The trial opened on Monday. The case for the prosecution related how at 6:20 AM the body of Mabel was found at the footpath near the Moorlands hotel. Detective Sergeant Farndale had given evidence of taking statements.

These two soldiers were serving in the North Staffordshire Regiment in the summer of 1939 and were based at Thursley in Surrey, together with the third soldier. On the evening of Thursday the 4th of July, 1939 the three men decided to go drinking together. They caught the bus into Hindhead and went to The Royal Huts hotel. This was demolished some 20 to 30 years ago and is now a housing estate. Here they met 42 year old Mabel who was a maid at the Moorlands Hotel at Hindhead and who had come in for a drink with a female friend. By closing time the friend had already left and the three soldiers offered to walk Mabel back to the Moorlands, where she lived in. The Moorland Hotel building is still there and is now a nursing home. Mabel left with them and appeared to be quite happy. As the group neared the Moorlands things turned nasty. The soldiers decided to rape Mabel and then kill her. Her body was found the next morning in the hotel grounds by the kitchen porter. An examination showed that she had been sexually assaulted. The autopsy carried out by Professor Keith Simpson, found that her nose had been broken and that she had died from a heavy blow(s) to the side of the head, thought to be from violent punches, inflicted by a strong man. Witnesses came forward to say that they had seen Mabel leaving the Royal Huts with three soldiers and they were invited to an identity parade of the 152 soldiers at the camp in Thursley. Two witnesses were able to identify one of the soldiers. Forensic tests showed blood on the clothes of 27 year old Stanley and 26 year old Arthur and semen on Stanley and 29 year old Joseph. All were arrested and taken to Farnham police station. Stanley and Arthur admitted having sex with Mabel but claimed it was consensual and denied intending to murder her, claiming that they only intended to “knock her out” after she changed her mind having first had intercourse with Arthur. All three were tried at the Old Bailey before Mr. Justice Oliver on the 12th to the 21st of September, 1939. Stanley and Arthur were convicted and Joseph acquitted of murder as there was no real evidence that he was an accomplice to rape - he himself hadn't used violence, so he could only be guilty of murder, if he were guilty of the rape, which the jury decided he wasn't. Stanley placed the blame on Arthur, saying “I am innocent of any violence that night, it was just a matter of being present with Joseph who got acquitted.” However he chose not to appeal. Arthur did appeal but this was dismissed, with Lord Hewart describing the crime “as one of ferocious and repulsive brutality”. In view of the obvious animosity between Stanley and Arthur and to avoid a scene on the gallows it was decided to execute them on consecutive days. On Wednesday the 25th of October, 1939 Stanley was hanged at Wandsworth. He was given a drop of 8 ft 9 in. (3 inches more than the maximum value in the drop table) on account of his slight build and weight of just 125 lbs, the prison doctor concurring. The following morning, Arthur was executed. Arthur weighed 154 lbs. and was given a drop of 7’ 3” causing fracture/dislocation of the 4th and 5th cervical vertebrae and “tearing of the junction of the medulla and pons.”

In the Second World War, Thomas Farndale continued to work as a detective sergeant and later inspector in a real life ‘Foyle’s War’ story.

In the 1939 register Thomas, born 2 September 1899, Police Criminal Investigation Department (“CID”), lived at 1 Bracknell Villa, Weydon Hill Road, Farnham with his wife Hilda M Farndale, born 12 August 1913, who was recorded as responsible for unpaid domestic duties.

In another incident in December 1939 at Farnham Police Court a soldier, stationed at Aldershot, was charged with an offence against a 14 year old girl, at Ashvale, on May 25th. The girl, an expectant mother, said that the soldier had promised to marry her, and there was no reason why he should have known that she was not 16. Her mother stated that the girl was 14 on December 22nd last, and agreed in cross examination that she had been taken for at least 17. Detective Sergeant Farndale said he saw accused in barracks at Aldershot on November 2nd and told him the nature of the charge. The soldier then made a statement in which he said he did not remember the girl telling him her age, but he had a rough idea she was something like 14. Accused, who is committed for trial at Central Criminal Court, on January 9th, was admitted to bail on his own recognisance of £10 and was granted a certificate of legal aid.

Wartime weapons theft

In December 1939 an accused called Robert stated to have been living in rooms at East street, Farnham, was committed for trial at the Central Criminal Court by Farnham magistrates on Thursday, on three charges of shop breaking. It was alleged that he had broken into the premises of Achille Serre Limited, South Street, on December 5, and stolen £5 6s; into the premises of Hickley and Co Limited, South Street, on December 5, and stolen a rifle and air pistol, 200 rounds of rifle ammunition and 12s; and into the premises of William Kingham and Sons Limited on November 19 and stolen £22 2s 6d, postage stamps and cigarettes. PC Dobinson gave evidence that on the floor of Achille Serre Limited he found a car park ticket issued by the borough of Brighton and Detective Sergeant Farndale said accused admitted that the ticket had been issued to him. A statement signed by accused was produced by Detective Sergeant Farndale. In this accused stated that he came to Farnham in 1933 and was employed as a motor driver mechanic. In recent months he had found difficulty in finding work, and he decided to turn to crime. He admitted breaking into three premises. He also confessed to having broken into others, and desired that all these cases be taken into consideration. The bench refused an application for bail pending trial.

At the outbreak of the last war Thomas was promoted to Inspector and transferred to the War Emergency Branch, remaining in charge of this department until 1945.

In February 1940, Acting Inspector Thomas Henry Farndale, of Farnham, has been promoted Inspector in the Surrey Constabulary, in place of the late Inspector R A Lucas. Inspector Farndale will remain at Farnham.

In October 1943 Mr Arthur George Gilbert, of High Street, Bagshot, sub postmaster at Bagshot for nearly 15 years, died on Friday last week after a few weeks illness, aged 62. Among numerous members of the local police force were Detective Inspector Farndale, Farnham.

In June 1944 West Surrey Rangers and Sea Rangers’ second home emergency test was held at Woodlocks, the Farnham campsite, and Highlands, Farnham, recently. The test was arranged in two sections and on the first day the subjects were: inspection, drill. The following day was the main test. It was based on the theory that roads to Farnham had been bombed. Candidates, ready for any emergency, were exercised in four groups. Before starting each candidate’s emergency kit was inspected. The judging in other sections was done by the following. Inspector Farndale, Farnham and Captain Frith, Farnham, traffic control and road rules.

In January 1945, the funeral of Police Inspector Arthur Still, of Woking, took place at Ripley, on Thursday last week. Those present included Farndale, Farnham.

Post War

Mr Farndale then served a time with the traffic and communications division, and in 1946 went to Caterham as sub divisional inspector, and remained in charge there until November, 1948.

The Chalkpit Murder

Mr Farndale has had what is probably a unique experience for a country officer of having been concerned in four cases of murder, the most notorious of which was the Chalkpit Murder which was the front page news in 1946. Then at Caterham, Mr Farndale was called on November 30th, 1946, to the chalkpit at Slines Oak Road, Woldingham, where he found the body of John Mcbain Mudie, and, with other officers, he took charge of the local inquiries which subsequently led to the appearance in the dock at the old bailey of Thomas John Lee, an ex minister of justice for New South Wales, and his accomplice, Lawrence John Smith. For his part in clearing up the case Chief Inspector Farndale received a first class commendation.

Thomas John Ley (28 October 1880 – 24 July 1947) was an Australian politician who was convicted of murder in England. He is widely suspected to have been involved in the deaths of a number of people in Australia, including political rivals. In 1946, Maggie Evelyn Brook, a magistrate's wife, was living in Wimbledon, and Ley had his house at 5 Beaufort Gardens, London, converted into flats. Ley falsely believed that Brook and a barman called John McMain Mudie were having an affair. Ley persuaded two of his labourers that Mudie was a blackmailer, and together they tortured and killed him. The case became known as the "Chalk-pit Murder" because Mudie's body was dumped in a chalk pit on Woldingham Common in Surrey, thirty miles away from Ley's home. With Lawrence John Smith, Ley was tried at the Old Bailey; both were sentenced to death in March 1947. However, both Smith and Ley escaped the noose: Smith's sentence was commuted to life imprisonment, while Ley was declared insane and sent to Broadmoor Asylum for the Criminally Insane. He died there soon after of a cerebral haemorrhage. He is said to have been the wealthiest person ever to be imprisoned at Broadmoor. He left an estate in New South Wales valued for probate at £744. Ley's wife had followed him to England in 1942. From Broadmoor, Ley wrote letters and poems, and protested his innocence to his wife and children. After his death, his widow returned to Australia. She died at Bowral, New South Wales in 1956.

“It just went off”

In May 1948 a woman called Doris, who appeared on remand at Godstone Petty Sessions, Oxted, Surrey, today, accused of murdering her husband, Frederick, at Harrow Road, Wallingham, on Saturday, was further remanded into custody until May 19. Inspector T H Farndale said that on Saturday he saw the body of a man in an upstairs bedroom. Doris was downstairs and later made a statement. When charged, she replied: “It just went off,” the inspector alleged.

Doris, who appeared on remand at Oxted, Surrey, today, charged with murdering her husband, Frederick, Harrow Rd, Wallingham, Surrey on Saturday, was further remanded in custody until May 19. Inspector T H Farndale said that on Saturday, in an upstairs bedroom, he saw the body of a man. Doris, who was downstairs, later made a statement. When charged, she replied, “It just went off.” When Doris heard she was to be remanded she collapsed and had to be carried from court.

Doris, who appeared on remand before the Godstone Petty Sessions at Oxted, Surrey, today, charged with murdering her husband, Frederick at Harrow Road, Wallingham, Surrey, on Saturday, was further remanded in custody until May 19. Inspector T H Farndale said that on Saturday in an upstairs bedroom he saw the body of a man. Doris was downstairs. She later made a statement. When charged, she replied “It just went off.” Doris was allowed to sit at the solicitor’s table in court. When she heard she was to be remanded she collapsed and had to be carried out. Legal aid was granted.

Doris, 27, mother of four children, of Harrow Road, Wallingham, Surrey, was charged on remand at Oxted on Tuesday with the murder of her husband, Frederick. At a previous hearing Inspector T H Farndale said he found the dead man in her bedroom at the house and Doris was downstairs. Mr Richard Thompson, prosecuting, said that Doris believed that her husband was going about with the other women. On May 8 the neighbours, and PC Myers, a lodger, heard a loud bang. Doris, who was standing in her back garden, said to her mother, “I have shot him. I could no longer stand this life any longer.” Doris was committed for trial at the next Surrey assizes and reserved defence.

In November 1948 Detective Inspector S Tappenden, at present at Weybridge, is coming to Reigate on November 22nd as Chief Inspector. On the same day that Chief Inspector Tappenden comes to Reigate, Inspector J Bowles is leaving the borough to be Inspector in charge of the Caterham subdivision of the Oxted division of the Surrey constabulary, in succession to inspector T H Farndale, who moves to Oxted to fill a vacancy caused by the retirement of Inspector Butler.

The rifle shooting section of the Surrey Constabulary Sports Association held their annual dinner and presentation in November 1948, at the Barley Mow, Brockham. The chief constable of Surrey, Mr. J Simpson, who is the president of the Sports Association was in the chair. He was accompanied by Mrs Simpson and was supported by the Assistant Chief Constable, Mr H N Back, and Brigadier G Roupell VC, whose father-in-law, Captain Sant, with the former chief constable. Also present were Inspector T H Farndale, Caterham.

Thomas was involved in various bowls competitions in 1949.

He came to Oxted as divisional inspector and deputy to the Superintendent for the division and was promoted Chief Inspector in January, 1950.

In January 1950, Lawrence, 39, of Gays cottages, Tandridge lane, Tandridge, admitted at Oxted on Monday that he stole 2 lbs of sugar, ½ pound of cheese and half a pound of butter, the property of the Fullers’ Earth Union, and valued at 3s 2 ½ d, at Nutfield, on November 13^th. Giving the facts of the case, Inspector Farndale said defendant was employed as a process worker at one of the works of the Fullers’ Earth Union. On November 13th, he was in charge of the canteen for the 2.10 pm shift, for which sufficient rations were left. There was some cheese in a refrigerator, which could have been used in an emergency. Later the same evening a van was stopped by a police officer, and in the back was a tin containing a quantity of food scraps, among which were the butter, sugar and cheese, which was later identified by the canteen manager as similar to that used in the canteen. Interviewed next day, Lawrence at once admitted taking the food from the canteen at the works, and made a statement in which he expressed regret.

When a 12 year old Lingdale boy at Oxted juvenile court in August 1950 said, “I'm very sorry, and it won't happen again,” admitting he had stolen 5s 11d, the chairman observed, “You sound as if you've said that before.” Chief Inspector Farndale said the boy had called at a house in Saxby’s Lane, Lingfield, on July 10th, saying he was collecting the empty milk bottles, and then asked the lady who answered the door if she “had the money.” He took 5s 11d, and said he would return later with the milk. Later in the day, when the usual milk boy called, the police were informed. The boy admitted to PC Smith that he took the money, and had spent it on “cakes and the pictures.” The child had been before the court once before for larceny, when he had gone to a home for maladjusted children. He had suffered from TB glands, which had affected his schooling. The justices ordered the boy to be remanded for six weeks, during which time a psychiatric report would be made.

At the same hearing Chief Inspector Farndale said in evidence against a 16 years old oxted boy accused of assaulting a girl aged seven, that the girl was walking along the road near Limpsfield Chart when accused asked her the way to Pollards Oak. When she told him there were two ways, he asked her to show him, and decoyed the child into a wood where he assaulted her. Accused's father said his son was involved in an accident when he was younger, and was in hospital for six weeks. Since then, his headache, he got dizzy turns, and afterwards he didn't remember what he had been doing. The boy was sent to an improved school for three years.

In January 1951 Mr H Farrell, who is the 1st Godstone scout group personified, wrote and produced their “28th and greatest” musical show, “Okanagan Holiday,” which was presented at the White Hart barn, Godstone, last week. The scenery was carried out by parts of the troupe who called themselves “The Arts”. In “Treasures” where nearly everyone was knocked out, T Farndale, police. No member of the company played only one part and all must be congratulated on yet another fine effort.

In February 1951 Bernard, of Upper Wimpole Street, W, was fined £5 and licence endorsed, and ordered to pay £4 7s 7d, witnesses expenses by the Oxted justices, on Monday, when he pleaded guilty to careless driving at Effingham crossroads, Horne, on December 26. A summons alleging dangerous driving was withdrawn. Defendant was fined a further £1 for failing to conform to a halt sign on the same occasion. Chief Inspector Farndale said a motorist slowed down to take the junction, and when in the centre of the crossroads, defendants car came from the direction of Lingfield at right angles and collided with him, knocking his car across the road and into the ditch. Defendant declined to make a statement, but said he had not seen the halt sign, and that he was on the main road.

At the annual presentation dance of the Croydon and district Wednesday Football League in May 1951, Surrey police (Eastern) FC, were presented with the league sportsmanship cup, by the president, Dr F G Pailthorpe. The cup is presented to the club considered to have the best sportsmanship record, both on and off the field of play, and was received by PC Brush, the police captain. The team is made-up of members of the Oxted and Reigate police divisions, the secretary being PC Bellchambers, and the chairman, Chief Inspector TH Farndale, both stationed at Oxted. This was their second season in the league.

In July 1951 at Oxted Magistrates Court, David, of no fixed abode, was sent to prison for six months having pleaded guilty to the theft of a gold stuff box, value £47, the property of Lord Annaly, at Baldwins, Baldwins Hill. He was charged with being an absentee from the King's Royal Rifle Regiment, and pleaded guilty. The case was adjourned sine die. Chief Inspector Farndale stated that on June 20 Lord Annaly left his residence leaving a manservant in charge. This manservant later went to the Fitzroy Tavern where he met the accused, who he said was “broke” and had nowhere to go. The accused was then invited to stay at Lord Annaly’s address for two days, which he did, but when he left the man servant saw that the snuff box was missing. He immediately informed his employer and the police. Interviewed later, the accused said: “I had the snuffbox alright. I sold it for £30. I was given it .” Chief Inspector Farndale said that the accused had been absent from the King's Royal Rifles at Winchester since June 13. He asked for leniency, and said: “I’ve been out of trouble since I came out of Borstal two years ago. I only did it because I was in a tight spot.”

In January 1952 a company of some 300 spent an enjoyable evening at the New Year's Eve Police ball organised by the Oxted division of the Surrey Constabulary at the Hoskins Hotel. Those present included Chief Inspector and Mrs Farndale, Oxted.

Three boys from a probation home, two aged 16 and the third 15, admitted at Oxted juvenile court, in March 1952, that they broke into a railway platelayers’ hut at Nutfield between January 26th and 28th with intent to steal. The two older boys also admitted entering another hut and stealing two iron bars, value 2s, and asked for another offence to be taken into consideration. Chief Inspector Farndale said the boys readily admitted their several parts in the offences and they told the justices they realised it was a silly thing to do.

A 17 years old youth from a probation home, Ronald, was charged before Mr H Farrell that Oxted, in May 1952, with breaking and entering an office at the probation home, on or about April 25th, and stealing £15 in cash. PC Robinson said earlier that morning he saw the youth detained at a London police station and told him he had reason to believe he had broken into the office with others. He replied, “Yes, that's right.” On this evidence, the youth was remanded in custody to Monday, Chief Inspector Farndale explaining there were other boys involved, two of whom had returned to the home; another was still missing.

Presiding at their annual meeting of the Oxted and District Football Club in June 1952, Mr T H Farndale, vice chairman, observed that it was very disappointing to see so few present at the annual meeting, though he was told it was always the same. He said there should be more interest shown by local people who had played football in the past and by those interested in the game. Appointments incvluded Vice chairman, Mr Farndale.

A former milk roundsman, Lewis, 53, of 11 Trindles Road, South Nutfield, pleaded guilty at Oxted court, in September 1952, to embezzling £4 16s 5d received by him for his master, at Blechingley, on July 26 and to three charges of falsifying round books. He was sent to prison for six months on each of the four charges, the sentence is to run concurrently. Chief Inspector Farndale said that in July, 1951, Taylor obtained work as a milk roundsman at White Post Dairy, Blechingley, and was given two round books, containing customers names, the amount of milk supplied daily and the cash collected. Pages at the back of one book was set aside for Taylor to enter the cash paid into his employer on a particular day and the amount spent on petrol etc. Early this year, in view of the information given to the police, accounts were examined. At first it was not clear what had been happening, and Taylor was seen by a detective. When told it was believed the accounts were not correct, he said, “They are all right; there's nothing wrong with them.” The books were then checked thoroughly by his employer, and it was discovered that, generally, the total of cash handed in, added to the money spent on expenses, was lower than the money shown as having been paid customers by customers on respective days. It was clear that Taylor had been receiving money and keeping it and making back entries in the books.

At the annual swimming gala of the Surrey Constabulary Sports Association at Redhill Baths in October 1952, Reigate and Oxted divisions took second and third places respectively. The officials included Diving judges, Chief Inspector T Farndale.

The best eight plays selected from total of eighty may be expected to present a superlative programme. And so it proved at the Dorking Halls in October 1952 when the Surrey Federation of the Women's Institute presented the plays which were outstanding at the mammoth festival in May, when 80 Women's Institutes competed. The afternoon programme was opened by Chipstead with a mine, “the circus”... “Willow pattern”, a Chinese legend by Eric Williams, was the choice of Hurst Green, who seized with great effect upon the possibilities of the Chinese set offered for artistry and atmosphere. They built up the play with a brittle delicacy which added savour to the popular conception of the Orient and the audience were brought inevitably to a tense climax. An excellent performance was given. Other parts were taken by Hilda Farndale.

In December 1952, ordering two Oxted boys of 13 and 14, respectively, to undergo periods of probation and a third, 13 years old, to be remanded for three weeks for a medical and psychological report, after they had admitted being concerned together in stealing articles from the stationer's shop in Oxted during September, the chairman said, “We are determined to stop this stealing from shops.” The boys admitted stealing a model car, model tractor, and trailer, and two diaries, the property of Sidney Brockers, and asked for similar a similar offence, at another shop in Oxted, to be taken into consideration. Chief Inspector Farndale said PC Simmons heard rumours that the boys had been stealing while investigating another offence, and when they were interviewed in the presence of their parents, all admitted it.

Yet another series of cases of stealing from shops, involving five Godstone boys and two from Caterham, all between 10 and 12 years old, drew from the chairman the remark, “These are very serious cases and the magistrates have decided that this stealing from shops must cease.” Chief Inspector Farndale said that all had made statements admitting the offences. One boy was said by several of his companions to have ordered them to commit various offences or be “bashed up”, and two of the Godstone boys told of stealing money from one of their parents houses to go to the pictures.

Described by Chief Inspector Farndale as “one of the most shocking cases in my experience”, and as “something that has been going on for months,” eight Oxted boys between 10 and 15 years were placed on probation after they had severally admitted indecent insults during September upon two young Oxted girls of 10 and 11 years. One girl was the sister of an accused boy.

In the same month, Peter, a forty year old salesman, of Gable Court, Cold Harbour, Lingfield, Surrey, was charged at Oxted, Surrey, today, with the murder of his wife, Heiga, 36, at Lingfield. He was remanded in custody until January 5. Chief Inspector Farndale said that at 2.30 am today he told Peter that at 12.30 am he had seen the body of Heiga at Gable Court, and that he had good reason to believe that Peter was responsible for her death. Peter replied, “What can I say? This has been coming for a long time. I was desperate.” Peter handed him a sealed envelope which it was proposed to put in at a later stage. Peter was granted legal aid. The bodies of a woman and child were found earlier today after a small fire at the front room of a cottage at Gable court.

Appearing on remand at Oxted, Surrey, in January 1953, accused of murdering his wife, Peter, 40 year old salesman, of Gable Court was further charged with murdering his four year old son Stuart. Chief Inspector T Farndale said that when charged on December 30th with his wife's murder and when on January 1st with the murder of his son, Peter replied that he had nothing to say. At the inquest on Friday it was stated that she and the child were found dead with head injuries in different bedrooms of their house after there had been a fire there. It was stated that an axe and a knife had been found.

The inquest was formally resumed at Sutton, on Thursday last week, on 4 year old Stuart, who it was stated the previous week, was found dead with head wounds and stabs in the chest in his in bed at his home. The only witness called at the resumed inquest on the child on Thursday was Chief Inspector Thomas Henry Farndale who told the coroner, Dr CFJ Baron, “In connection with the death of Stuart, I was present at the Magistrates Court at Oxted on Monday when Peter was charged with the murder of his son Stuart. He had been remanded in custody until next week.” The coroner: “Assuming he is committed for trial, he will be committed to the Assizes?” Chief Inspector Farndale: “Yes, at Kingston.” The coroner adjourned the inquest until the conclusion of the criminal proceedings.

When Peter was charged at Oxted, Surrey today with the murder of his wife and son, the prosecution said that Peter made a statement to the police which said: “At 6 am I put to sleep my own beloved wife, Heiga, and my dear son Stuart. Heiga always wanted to be cremated, so I am setting fire to Gable Court tonight and I am taking sufficient tablets to put away myself.” Chief Inspector Farndale said that at the police station Peter handed in a sealed envelope containing a letter which said: “They were sleeping when I did it. I know their souls have gone to heaven, they were the dearest wife and son anyone could wish for.”

In February 1953 Raymond, 17, labourer, appeared before Mr H Farrell at Oxted on Tuesday, charged with breaking and entering Christ Church, South Nutfield, on February 22nd, and stealing a tin of tobacco, packet of cigarette papers, and box of matches, together valued at 4s 5 ½ d. Chief Inspector Farndale asked for a remand in custody to Monday, when, he said, they hoped to be ready to proceed with the case. The remand was granted.

In March 1953 two painters were given good characters, Herbert, 30, and James, 45 were fined £5 each at Oxted Court on Monday for stealing two carpets and a quantity of oak stair rods, together valued at £41. Chief inspector Farndale said the men were employed by local builders on decorating work at a house in Lingfield. The owner of the house had purchased from the previous householder a carpet, stair carpet and stair rods, which were placed in a bedroom. He missed the property when he visited the home on January 23rd, and accused were seen by police officer on January 25th.

In April 1953 two 16 year old boys who absconded from a probation home on Wednesday last week appeared before Oxted juvenile court on Monday accused with breaking into Lingfield Vicarage. Chief Inspector Farndale said that on March 11th these boys were charged with sacrilege and store breaking and were remanded on bail to appear at Court on Monday 16th and returned to their probation home. On March 15th they absconded and were caught two days later and then remanded in custody until March 23rd. Chief Inspector Farndale said that when they appeared at the court of sessions this week there would be about 19 cases to be taken into consideration.

In August 1953 the mile walk provided a keen tussle. Among the afternoon’s officials were chief marksman, Chief Inspector Farndale.

In October 1953 Coronation medals were presented to members of the Reigate division of Surrey Constabulary by the Lord Lieutenant, General Sir Robert Haining on Tuesday. He was accompanied by the Chief Constable, Mr. J Simpson and the assistant chief constable, Mr H M Back. Members of the Reigate division paraded at Reigate Police Station under Superintendent SH Tappenden and those of the division who received medals were. The Lord Lieutenant also presented Coronation medals to the members of the Oxted division on Tuesday. All available members of the division were on parade at the Oxted cricket pavilion at noon, and as the Lord Lieutenant approached, his standard was broken at the masthead. Those who received medals included Chief Inspector T H Farndale.

In the same month at Oxted, “Georgian England” was devised by Nora Sowerby and the cast included Hilda Farndale.

Also in October 1953, George, of Park Lane East, Reigate, pleaded not guilty at Oxted Court on Monday to failing to conform with a halt sign at Church Lane, Oxted on September 9th. He agreed with Chief Inspector Farndale he did not actually stop.

In February 1954 a series of lectures to the Special Constabulary culminated in a quiz on Thursday last week between the Caterham and Oxted subdivisions. Caterham scored 49.3 points in Oxted 49. Chief Inspector T Farndale had given the lectures.

In April 1954 when a tall, sensitive looking youth of 16 who had absconded from a probation home and joined the circus, appeared before Oxted juvenile court on Thursday, the justices decided to send him back to the circus. He was put on probation at Littlehampton in November, 1953, for trying to commit suicide by throwing himself under a car, and a condition of his probation was that he resided at the home for a year but he became very unhappy there. “There was a lot of stealing and things, and I left because I didn't want to be dragged into it”, he said. Chief Inspector Farndale said the circus was willing to re employ the boy and gave him gave very good reports of him. His father told the court he thought it would do him good to start out on his own at the circus. Inspector Farndale said the police would arrange to take to the boy back to the winter quarters of the circus.

In May 1954, an allegation that he was bullied into committing the offence was made by 17 years old boy from probation home, George, when he appeared, on remand, at Oxted Court on Monday and admitted breaking and entering Christ Church, South Nutfield, on April 25th, and stealing money and articles to a total value of £42 5s 4 ½ d. Chief Inspector Farndale said that on the morning of April 25th a number of male members of Christ Church choir left their jackets in the vestry whilst they attended matins. After the service they missed the property and money mentioned in the charge from the pockets of their jackets. Later the same day a police officer saw George and at first he denied having any knowledge of the offence but later asked, “Will you let me get the stuff?”

An honour which he greatly prized was his selection as officer in charge of the Surrey Constabulary Contingent at the Royal Review of police by Queen Elizabeth II at Hyde Park in July, 1954.

In July 1954, the facts of a case were outlined by Chief Inspector T H Farndale, who added that the accused served in the war with the Royal Navy and saw service in the Atlantic, Mediterranean and Russian waters.

In September 1954, a 12 years old Godstone boy admitted at Oxted junior juvenile court on Thursday last week that he stole a toy camera water pistol, worth 9d, from La ingfield shop on July 10th. Chief Inspector Farndale said that on July 10th, the boy met with a friend in Lingfield and they went into a shop. While his friend was buying some fishing tackle defendant stole a water pistol camera from a shelf near the counter.

In the same month a man who was found lying in the forecourt of Godstone London Transport Garage in the small hours of Monday morning was fined £1 or one days imprisonment for being drunk and incapable. Chief Inspector Farndale said defendant was single and a merchant seaman. At the same hearing Sidney, 42, labourer, of St Johns Road, Castleton, appeared on remanded at Oxted Court on Monday charged with robbing a woman of £2 5s 9d with violence on July 20th, 1953 at Godstone. He was remanded for a further week. Chief Inspector T Farndale intimated that they would then be ready to proceed with the case.

In the same month a man of Godstone, left his bicycle outside a newsagent shop at Godstone on June 16th while he went to work at Reigate. When he returned at 5.15 pm that day his cycle had gone. At Oxted juvenile court on Thursday last week, a 13 years old Wadden boy admitted stealing it. Chief Inspector T Farndale said the boy was stopped by a police constable at Nutley, Sussex, during the day. He said he was going to Eastbourne, and when asked whether his parents knew he said, “I don't know, I don't think so.

The Chief Inspector has always been an enthusiastic sportsman and as he young man played cricket and football for whatever town or village he happened to be stationed at the time in addition, of course, to playing for his divisional team. In later years he took up bowls, has been a member of the Oxted and Limpsfield club for many seasons and has represented the police in most of their intercounty matches, skipping a rink of Oxted policeman with considerable success. He has also devoted considerable time to the administrative side of football, being the Inspector's representative on the Constabulary Sports Association Committee and having served on the committee of the Oxted Football Club for six years, filling the office of chairman for the last three seasons. Both his sons share his love of sport and, when national service has permitted, have given useful performances for the Oxted Cricket Club. Mrs Farndale also took up bowls and within two years carried off the Oxted ladies’ club championship, junior championship and handicap trophies, which achievement earned her county honours.

In June 1954 members of the Oxford and District Football Club heard with sincere regret at the annual meeting at the George Hotel on Thursday last week that the president had asked to be released from the office of president. The chairman, Mr T H Farndale, said if they had been successful in their application for entry to the Premier Division of the intermediate league, they might have attracted better players, but the league council decided to admit a club that had not previously been in the league rather than promoted club. Other appointments made were the chairman, Mr Farndale.

In January 1955 a 15 years old plumbers mate from Stockwell pleaded guilty at Oxted juvenile court on Thursday last week to stealing a wristlet watch, valued at 30s, at Oxted on January 3. Chief Inspector Farndale explained that a man working on a partly built bungalow placed his watch on the windowsill from which it disappeared later.

How a 15 years old Godstone boy watched a 12 year old schoolgirl get off a bus and then deliberately followed her with intent to committing an indecent assault was described by Chief Inspector Farndale at Oxted juvenile court in July 1955.

The annual meeting at the Oxted and District Football Club was held at the George Hotel, in August 1955. Mr Farndale said he was dismayed at the small number of players attending the meeting. The club had some very good players but seemed to just miss real success. The committee worked hard and had more support from the players, who received a lot in the way of a fine ground and good facilities for a very small subscription. Appointments, Chairman, Mr Farndale.

In November 1955 Chief Inspector Farndale retired. A member of a family whose connection with the police service extends over 75 years, Chief Inspector TH Farndale retires this weekend after 35 years service with the Surrey Constabulary, the last nine in the Oxted division. He served in the 1914 to 1918 war with the RNVR, as a wireless telegraphist and joined the Police Force in May 1920. For the first ten years he was successively at Woking, Camberley, Sunningdale, Windlesham, and Cranleigh, and was then transferred to clerical duties, first at Hersham and then at Woking. A spell of CID experience was followed by promotion to Sergeant at Bagshot, where he came in close contact with the late Duke of Connaught, the security of whose residence, Bagshot Park, came within his jurisdiction.

In 1938, Mr Farndale returned to CID duties and was stationed at Farnham. At the outbreak of the last war he was promoted to Inspector and transferred to the War Emergency Branch, remaining in charge of this department until 1945. Mr farndale then served a time with the traffic and communications division, and in 1946 went to Caterham as sub divisional inspector, and remained in charge there until November, 1948. He came to Oxted as divisional inspector and deputy to the Superintendent for the division and was promoted Chief Inspector in January, 1950.

Mr Farndale's family has had a long connection with the police service, beginning in the 1870s when his great uncle, Mr Joseph Farndale, joined the Middlesbrough force and was subsequently Chief Constable of Leicester City and later of Birmingham. While at the latter city he started a police band, the first of its kind in the country. Another Joseph Farndale, and uncle of the Chief Inspector’s, joined the Wakefield police and later served at Chesterfield as inspector before becoming Chief Constable at Margate and, eventually, at Bradford, retiring in 1930. The elder son of Chief Inspector Farndale joined the Surrey Constabulary last September, so that in the normal course of events the family should eventually be able to boast 100 years of continuous police service.

The Chief Inspector has always been an enthusiastic sportsman and as he young man played cricket and football for whatever town or village he happened to be stationed at the time in addition, of course, to playing for his divisional team. In later years he took took up bowls, has been a member of the Oxted and Limpsfield club for many seasons and has represented the police in most of their intercounty matches, skipping a rink of Oxted policeman with considerable success. He has also devoted considerable time to the administrative side of football, being the Inspector's representative on the Constabulary Sports Association Committee and having served on the committee of the Oxted Football Club for six years, filling the office of chairman for the last three seasons. Both his sons share his love of sport and, when national service has permitted, have given useful performances for the Oxted Cricket Club. Mrs Farndale also took up bowls and within two years carried off the Oxted ladies’ club championship, junior championship and handicap trophies, which achievement earned her county honours.

On Monday, Mr Farndale starts a new career, in the licencing trade, as licensee of the Plough Inn, Dormansland.

At the conclusion of the of Oxted juvenile court in November 1955, the chairman, Mr H Farrell, referred to the retirement of Chief Inspector TH Farndale, who has now taken over the Plough Inn, Dormansland, and said he had held the court for so many years. They missed him very much and hoped he would be happy in his retirement.

In October 1956 Mrs Lumsden, President again thanked members for the tea service presented to her at the members’ day meeting in recognition of her services as Institute secretary for nine years and president for two years. Mrs. Taylor, assistant secretary, read the minutes, the secretary, Mrs Farndale, having met with an accident while on holiday.

The Inn Keeper

In March 1957, if the Government could think about giving a relief in entertainment tax for cinemas then it was time it devoted a little consideration to the licencing trade. This was the tenor of a comment by Mr W Yate, trustee, London central board, when responding to a toast at the annual dinner and dance at the Caterham and Godstone District Licenced Victuallers Protection Association at the Grasshopper Inn, Moorhouse, on Tuesday. The health of the ladies and visitors was submitted by Mr T H Farndale, joint vice chairman, who humorously described himself as “quite a new boy in this tax gathering racket”.

The annual meeting at the Caterham and Godstone District Licenced Victuallers Protection Society at the Hoskins Arms Hotel, Oxted, in February 1959. Officers elected included TH Farndale, Lingfield onto the committee.

In March 1959, nearly 100 people attended this year’s party for Capel Young Wives Group's members and friends in the village Memorial Hall on Saturday evening. Numerous games were played and the local Women's Institute performed their short humorous play “A quiet rest.” This was produced by Mrs Farndale.

In January 1963, a representative of the wholesale trade, the retiring president of Godstone and Caterham District Licenced Victuallers Association faced his licensee colleagues at the annual luncheon in the White Hart, Blechingley, on Tuesday last week. Mr T H Farndale, chairman of the association, said: “The entire point of this annual function is to show our appreciation for the efforts of the retiring president. There have been almost 80 of them since the association was formed. Mr Mackenzie Cherrington's name will soon be added to the illustrious list.”

Thomas H Farndale, of the Plough Inn Dormansland, near Lingfield Surrey died on 10 May 1964 at Queen Victoria Hospital, East Grinstead.

Mr TH Farndale, licensee of the Plough Inn, Dormansland since 1955 and at one time Chief Inspector at Oxted, died at Queen Victoria Hospital, East Grinstead, on Sunday after a long illness for. He was 64.

Mr Farndale joined the Surrey Constabulary in May, 1920, after serving with the RNVR in the 1914 to 1918 war. He came to Oxted as divisional inspector in 1948 and two years later was promoted to Chief Inspector. He retired in November, 1955 after a colourful and somewhat exciting police career and then took over the Plough Inn.

During his 35 years with the police, he was concerned with four murder cases, including the notorious chalkpit murder at Oxted in 1946. He was always an enthusiastic sportsman and played cricket and football in whatever town he was stationed. He was chairman of Dormansland Football Club for two years and also took an active interest in Dormansland brass band.

In addition to his sporting activities he was a member of Caterham and Godstone Licenced Victuallers Association and served as chairman. He leaves a widow and two sons.

The funeral service was held at Dormansland Parish Church yesterday, Thursday, followed by cremation at the Surrey and Sussex crematorium, Worth.

In June 1965 he was honoured when Dormansland residents on Monday paid tribute to the most popular and hardworking neighbour, Mr Thomas Farndale, who died in May last year. The occasion was adults tournament finals at the Plough Inn, where Mr Farndale was licensee for many years after retiring as Chief Inspector at Oxted police station. A year ago Oxted and District Charity Darts League decided, with the help of the family and friends of Mr Farndale, to open a fund for a trophy to be named after him. The fund reached £70. The trophy is now regarded as the top prize any darts player could win. After an exciting final at the Plough, first winners became the team from the General Wolfe, Westerham. Runners up were players from the Swan, Godstone. Both teams had nine members and the Westerham men won six to three.

Mrs Hilda Farndale, the plough licensee, and Mr Farndale's widow, presented the trophy to Mr Joe Killick, the Wolfe’s captain.

“Many men go through life leaving no mark on their existence,” said Mr J E Gilbert, the league secretary, “but Mr Farndale made his mark in all the tasks he undertook. He left men better for having known him. He rarely played darts, but saw the League a means of bringing together people of all ages and backgrounds and of raising funds for charity.”

He reminded players that Mr Farndale was a founder member of the 12 years old league and treasurer and benefactor until his death.

Mr Farndale was well known in other social circles, including Oxted and Dormansland Football Clubs, Dormansland brass band, the Police Sports Association, bowls and cricket clubs.

Five years later, in June 1970, at the climax to another successful year, Oxted District Charity Darts League had their presentation last night and league finals at Edenbridge Mens club on Monday. The League’s President, Mrs Hilda Farndale of the Plough, Dormansland, presented the prizes and trophies and then the purely social part of the evening took over. The British Legion Farndale Memorial trophy was awarded.

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