Honiton bids farewell to PCSO Barry Redford after more than 10 years of service to the town.

Honiton residents turned out in force to bid farewell to a much-loved Police Community Support Officer, who has retired.

PCSO Barry Redford gave more than 10 years’ sterling service to the town.

He was appointed to the role when Honiton was chosen as a pilot town for PCSOs.

St Paul’s Church was last Thursday packed with people who wanted to wish the 65-year-old well in his retirement at a special party.

“It is really nice to see so many people have turned out to wish me well,” said Barry.

Prior to working in Honiton he had various jobs, including one as a traffic warden in Seaton - but admits he did not write many tickets.

He said: “I didn’t write many tickets.

“I would talk to people and had no problems in Seaton. I treat people as I would like to be treated.

“If you want to be treated with respect that is how you deal with people.”

Barry, who is originally from north London, was one of Honiton’s original 10 PCSOs.

“I think Honiton thought it had a crime wave with all the officers walking around,” recalls Barry.

“It was an exciting time for all of us as; none of us knew what the role was and the public had no vision of what we were doing.”

He told the Midweek Herald that he has enjoyed meeting people and solving problems in the town during his time as a PCSO.

He said: “It’s been a brilliant job for me.

“Honiton’s residents have been a joy to work with – you do get some awkward and difficult ones - but there have been so many things I have been able to help with.”

He added: “It is a vital role and it really is a necessary public resource and, to have a role where there is a regular police presence in the area, is worth its weight in gold.”

In his retirement Barry will be caravanning in Europe with his wife and hopes to visit the warmer climes of Spain and Portugal. I will be coming back every now and again” he said.

“I’ve got a special place here. I will miss the town very much.

“I would like to thank the people of Honiton for making my time here such fun, as much as anything. They have been a very warm and welcoming group of people. It is just so nice working here and I hope they make my replacement as welcome.”