Bobby Dodd is retiring from the police service, after 29 years serving the Grays area.

PC Dodd, 55, has worked in Grays since he first signed up for the force, in 1973.

Over the years, he has seen a lot of action and some tough times - like being drafted in to help police in northern England during the miners' strikes.

PC Dodd also recalled: "The worst incident I can remember was when another officer and I went to check up on a parked van.

"As we approached it, several men in hoods, balaclavas and army gear jumped out, pointed guns at us and told us they were going to kill us.

"I thought my time was up that day."

The men, thought to be contract killers, escaped and were never caught - but thankfully they left PC Dodd and his colleague unharmed.

Despite the hard times, PC Dodd looks back on his career with fond memories.

"The best times I have had are my many years serving as a community police officer. It is a great feeling to be a part of a community with an important role to play," he said.

PC Dodd is looking forward to starting his retirement in style with trips to Kenya and New Zealand with his wife, Christine.

Published Friday October 25, 2002

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