Previously working as a farm servant, William was appointed to the Northumberland County Constabulary on 3rd June 1912 as a 3rd class constable PC 179. He served at Whitley Bay, and in July 1914 requested a move inland as the coastal air did not suit him as he had suffered repeatedly from influenza. He resigned on 7th May 1915 to support the war effort, enlisting into the R.A.M.C., Territorial Force. From 7th May 1915 to 10th January 1917 he served on nursing duties. Then up to 1st August 1918 became an officers batman, when he returned to nursing duties up to the end of his war service. On 6th January 1919 he returned to police service, and was stationed at Hexham. From 26th December 1919 to 1st February 1920 he was on sick leave suffering from dyspepsia. He voluntarily resigned from police service on 9th June 1920. [Information researched and kindly provided by John Grainger]