Fallen police officer remembered a century on

A memorial service has been held to honour a police officer who was killed in the line of duty a century ago.

PC Albert Willits was a 24-year-old officer with Wolverhampton Borough Police when he was fatally shot on 18 January 1925.

He was remembered this weekend at Wolverhampton Central Police Station in a ceremony attended by his family and West Midlands Police staff.

"We wanted to remember and honour Albert, along with his family members, to ensure his legacy lives on," said Corinne Brazier, the force's heritage manager.

West Midlands Police said Mr Willits, who was married and had a child at the time of the shooting, joined the police in 1921 and had a reputation as "a dedicated and reliable officer".

He was trying to stop three young men who were behaving suspiciously in Vicarage Road when he was shot, they said.

The suspects were later caught in Stafford following a manhunt.

The force said more than 4,000 people stood around his house before his funeral.

Mr Willits has a memorial plaque at Wolverhampton Central Police Station and his name and picture are on the force's digital roll of honour.

"Albert's story is a poignant reminder of the dedication and sacrifices made by police officers to protect the public, prevent crime and catch criminals," said Ms Brazier.

"He will forever be part of our policing family."

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