'Moving service' to honour officer killed 100 years ago

6 February 2025

A ceremony to mark the 100th anniversary of the murder of a West Midlands Police officer ‘did us all proud’, his grandson said.

David Willits said the service in honour of his grandfather, PC Albert Willits, was ‘moving, poignant, and touching’.

Albert was 24 and an officer with Wolverhampton Borough Police when he was fatally shot trying to stop three young men in Vicarage Road on 18 January 1925.

David Willits (right), grandson of PC Albert Willits, with his wife Glennis and son Daniel.

Credit: West Midlands Police

His life was remembered at a ceremony at Wolverhampton Central Police Station attended by his family, as well as police officers and staff.

They included David, his wife Glennis, their son Daniel, David’s sister Susan King and her husband Roderick.

David said: “It was amazing to think it was 100 years ago and have a service dedicated to him and his memory was wonderful.

Moving service

“It was a very moving, poignant, and touching service. It was a little overwhelming.

“They did us proud.”

The service included a guard of honour, the playing of the Last Post, and a Force chaplain led the gathering in a prayer.

West Midlands Police Federation was represented by branch deputy secretary Chris James and treasurer Darren Neville - who, until recently, was a Wolverhampton Federation representative.

After the service, they attended Albert's grave to lay a wreath and say a few words. They were accompanied by Jon Morgan, a Wolverhampton officer who has recently stood to become a local Federation representative.

West Midlands Police Federation representatives laid a wreath at the grave of PC Albert Willits.

Heritage manager Corinne Brazier, who helped arrange the anniversary service, said: "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.

"We wanted to remember and honour Albert, along with his family members, to ensure his legacy lives on. He will forever be part of our policing family."