Does anyone have any parish constables in their tree please, working in the period 1780-1840? It might be difficult to tell because often the duties were foisted on them in addition to their 'day jobs'. This temporary appointment might not have been recorded therefore. Instead, usually everyone in the village took a turn until the Herts force was created in 1841 (and possibly beyond this too) I'm particularly interested in operational records of the various village constables, details of their duties or any private forces set up around the time. I'm building details on the Barnet General Association which maintained a private police force and helped victims of crime to prosecute. Their records include quite a few names of officers and members which I will post to the list when I've transcribed them. I'm spending lots of time at the archive, going through all the village records, looking for details of constables so, if anyone would like to send me some names, I'll see what I can do in tracing them. I'm already keeping my eye open for ASHBY on behalf of Nick but any others most welcome. Elaine

Hi Elaine I have a Samuel Bigg in my tree, born c1801 in Codicote, Hrt. He was parish Constable in 1833 & 1834, this position being an unpaid one, although he was sworn in at St.Albans. I hope this information is of use to you. Regards Sandra Wilmot Melbourne Australia