Police History

Chief Constable H. W. Madoc 1911-1936

Colonel Madoc was to become a household name during his 25 years as Chief Constable of the Isle of Man. He was responsible for improving the welfare of the force by introducing leave for all ranks - Inspectors got 16 days, Sergeants 14 and Constables 12 days each year, plus one day a month off-duty – although the days off had to accumulate in summer. By 1913 this increased to one day off per fortnight and in 1914, pensions for widows and dependants of police officers were introduced.

The First World War depleted the force and the Chief Constable was seconded as commandant of the Douglas Internment Camp for which he later was awarded the CBE. Superintendent Quilliam was appointed Deputy Chief Constable in his absence.

Isle of Man police continued to be poorly paid but a Tynwald Committee recommended improvements after police officers went on strike in England in 1919. King George V and Queen Mary visited the Isle of Man in 1920, and Colonel Madoc was awarded the MVO for duties performed in connection with the royal visit.

Colonel Madoc died shortly after retiring but will be remembered introducing the annual Christmas Police Treat for children of Douglas which he inaugurated in 1920 and which continued for many years. He was also a recognised authority on birds and the author of many books and articles, and a memorial pillar was erected in his memory at Langness.

Information up to the 1980s reproduced from the book Isle of Man Constabulary by George Turnbull, by kind permission of the publishers, Mansk-Svenska Publishing Company Limited, of Peel, Isle of Man.

The Department of Home Affairs also gratefully acknowledges the assistance of Manx National Heritage. Old photos reproduced by kind permission of Manx National Heritage. Head Constable photo courtesy of Isle of Man Constabulary.