A Fitting Memorial

A MEMORIAL plaque for a former South Yorkshire Police officer who was awarded the Victoria Cross during WWI has been unveiled at College Road Police Station in Doncaster.

George Wyatt was one of the first men to be awarded the Victoria Cross for his brave actions on the very first day of the war, when he dashed out in front of the enemy line to extinguish a fire, allowing the British soldiers to hold their position. He sustained a head injury but continued firing until he could no longer see as there was blood pouring down his face.

George worked in the police in Barnsley before the war and afterwards went on to work as a PC in Doncaster from 1924 to 1932. The plaque to remember his bravery was unveiled as part of Armed Forces Week.

South Yorkshire Police Federation Chair Steve Kent said: “George’s unbelievable bravery and courage just shows the level of sacrifice from people in the police service and our armed forces. It’s really nice that George has been recognised for this.”

On unveiling the plaque, Ch Supt Proffitt said: “It was an honour to be here for the unveiling of this memorial to a true local hero…The bravery and service of George Wyatt highlights a strong sense of duty, courage, loyalty and self-sacrifice.

“These are values we hold in high esteem as a police service. Our force bravery award has been dedicated to George Wyatt VC and will appropriately recognise courageous acts of officers in South Yorkshire Police.”